I live in southeastern Virginia near some great beaches. The James River, York River and Chickahominy River are all in my backyard and are great sports to enjoy some water fun. I can dip my toes in the shores of Virginia Beach in about an hour's drive. But, without question, my favorite beaches are those found in the Outer Banks of North Carolina...

This post is part of our summer quilt-along series. Find the rest of the posts by clicking {here}.

Just a couple hours from where we live, my family has made many memories at these beautiful beaches. There is a lot to love about the Outer Banks, but my favorite sight is probably the wild horses that roam in a certain part of these barrier islands. These beautiful creatures are magnificent to watch, if you are lucky enough to happen upon them!

Thanks for indulging my beach memory! Now, let's sew!

I call this block Lifeguard Stand, in honor of those who keep watch over those of us in the water.

Fabric A:

• (2) 2½” squares
• (1) 6½” by 2½” rectangle

 

Fabric B

• (4) 3½” squares
• (4) 1½” x 2½” rectangles

Fabric C

• (3) 1½” x 22” strips

Fabric D

• (3) 1½” x 22” strips

Center Cross Unit:

Sew a 1 ½” by 2 ½” rectangle of Fabric 2 (white) to each side of the 6 ½” by 2 ½” rectangle of Fabric 1 (red). Press towards red.

Sew a 1 ½” by 2 ½” piece of Fabric 2 (white) to the top of the 2 ½” by 2 ½” square of Fabric 1 (red). Press towards red. Sew a 3 ½” by 3 ½” square of Fabric 2 (white) to each side. Press towards white. Repeat.

Assemble center cross unit.

Navy and Aqua Side Units:

Sew a 1 ½” by 22” strip of Fabric 3 (aqua) to a 1 ½” by 22” strip of Fabric 4 (navy). Repeat with the remaining strips.

Press towards navy.

Cut 20 2 ½” wide blocks.

Sew four blocks together vertically to form side unit. Repeat.

Sew to either side of the center cross unit, placing the navy block on top on the left side and the aqua block on top on the right side. Press towards the center cross unit.

 

Sew six units together horizontally, alternating the placement of the colors. Repeat.

Sew to top and bottom, positioning so that the colors alternate. Press towards the center cross unit.

 

This block finishes at 12" x 12".

Come find me over on Instagram and tag me in your finished blocks. I love to see what people come up with!

I hope you are enjoying a wonderful summer filled with great memories. Happy sewing, everyone!

Christine Weld

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{instagram: @christine.weld}