Pineapple Block based on the method by Karin Hellaby Created by Alicja Wygas

Step 1 Cut 3” centre square and another 3” square in the contrasting fabric.

Step 2 Position accurately two squares together right sides facing, press them (you can spray them with starch if you wish to help them to hold together better).

Step 3 Machine both squares together along the perimeter with ¼ “ seam allowance.

Step 4 Mark 2 diagonal lines (not on the centre square) using propelling pencil. Take care to be very accurate; mark it from corner to corner, make sure the lines are crossing at 90 ⁰ angle.

Step 5 Pull away second square from the centre square in preparation for cutting.

Step 6 With the quick unpicker make a very little nick along one of the lines. Take great care not to cut through the centre square.

Step 7 Continue to cut along marked lines with sharp scissors; cutting to the corner; (stop very close to sewing lines).

Step 8 Press the sides away from the centre square. Use the side of the iron and gently pull the triangles away with your free hand. Spray starch helps to flatten the sides when working with small squares and makes the block more stable.

Step 9 Measure the size of just completed square. It should measure 3½”.

Step 10 Cut next 3½” square in the contrasting fabric and position carefully on the partly completed block.

Step 11 Machine along the perimeter of the square with ¼” seam allowance.

Step 12 Mark diagonal lines.

Step 13 Press the sides away making sure that you do not distort the triangles (they are on the bias).

Step 14 Measure the square. It should be 4¼” square.

Step 15 Cut the next square to 4¼” and position it accurately right sides facing over just completed block.

Step 16 Machine it with ¼” seam allowance. Mark diagonal lines and cut along them ensuring that you cut only through the top square.

Step 17 Press the block. It should measure 5⅜”. Cut your next square measuring 5⅜” and position it on the partly completed block. Machine it and repeat the process till you have achieved the block the size of your choice.