This is what our block will look like. I am using 2 packs of Candies. (84 2 1/2″ squares) I decided to use a winter collection called Snowman Gatherings II. It has a lot of blues and taupe colors so I thought a nice crisp white would set it off nicely.

I am using 2 yards of the white fabric (or at least that is how much I bought). I cut 84 pieces of 1 1/2″ x 2 1/2″ and 84 pieces of 3 1/2″ x 1 1/2″.

Now it’s time to start sewing. I did not need to pin these first pieces, as I am comfortable sewing them without movement. However, if you are just beginning, pinning wouldn’t be a bad idea. 

Place one of your background 1 1/2″ x 2 1/2″ strips on top of one of your 2 1/2″ squares. Right sides together. Pin each corner at about a 1/4″ to keep it from moving on you.

Sew a 1/4″ seam down the side of you pieces. To make this process as quick and easy as possible, chain stitch you pieces. You probably need to know what that is right? Well it’s easy. Once you get to the end of your piece that you are sewing make a few extra stitches. Once you do that, line up your next set of pieces and sew those, continue until you have done all of the 2 1/2″ squares attached to the 1 1/2″ x 2 1/2″ rectangles. 

Once you have sewn those together, cut your thread. Then snip between each set. (Notice, in piecing you do not backstitch like you would if making clothing or other items.)

Once you snip your sets, its time to press. Press your seams flat to the darker fabric.

To set the seam, flip your piece over and press on the right side as well.

More steps to come!