Block 5 introduces the Double X—a structured 16-patch built from half square triangles and simple squares. It’s a straightforward block, but precision and organization make all the difference.
You will make eight of these blocks.
What Goes Into This Block
There are two square sizes in this block.
Larger squares become half square triangles.
Smaller squares are used as-is in the 16-patch layout.
Before sewing, separate the two sizes. Keep the smaller squares grouped by color.
For cutting instructions, you need to download the free Haven QAL Guide.
Half Square Triangle Construction
The larger squares are paired:
Teal 3 with medium blue (Forest Lake); Salmon 3 with Smoky Pink (Painted Desert)
Teal 3 with medium dark green (Forest Lake); Salmon 3 with Terracotta (Painted Desert)
To make the HSTs:
Place one 3-1/4″ square of Teal (Salmon) fabric and one 3-1/4″ square of other fabric right sides together.
Mark the diagonal on the square; this is the cutting line (don’t cut yet!).
Then mark 1⁄4″ on each side of the line; these are the sewing lines.
Sew along both sewing lines. I like to sew just inside the line (towards the cutting
line).
Cut squares along the cutting line and press towards the darker fabric.
- Trim each HST to 2-3/4″ square
All HST units are trimmed to 2¾” square.
Yes, it’s an unusual number—but it ensures the 16-patch finishes at 9″ (9½” unfinished).
Laying Out the 16 Patch
For each block, you will need:
2 white squares
2 teal (salmon) squares
2 medium blue (smoky pink) squares
2 medium dark green (terracotta) squares
8 half square triangle units – 4 of each combination
Lay out the full block before stitching rows together. Before sewing, confirm orientation of every HST. The direction of the diagonal determines whether the “double X” reads clearly and crisply. Then sew:
Units into rows
Rows into the completed block
Each completed Double X block should measure 9½” unfinished.
Consistent sizing now ensures that when the mini nine patch and sashing are added, the block integrates seamlessly into the larger quilt structure.
Make a total of 8 blocks.
If you’d like to sew along, the Haven Quilt-Along is completely free and self-paced. You can download the quilt-along guide from my website, follow the video tutorials on YouTube, or join the Haven email list to receive weekly PDF instructions.
Kits available from Vintage Pink & Green (in store or online).