Mystery Quilt 2026 - Month 4
Thank you for joining me for another month of our vibrant mystery quilt journey! I am absolutely sew excited to present this month’s featured block, as we continue stitching together not just fabric, but the rich tapestry of quilting history. Let’s dive deeper into the heritage of quilting and discover how each piece ties our stories from the past to those we’ll craft in the future.
Our focus will be the timeless Churn Dash quilt block, a true classic among quilt lovers. This block has stood the test of time and is known by intriguing names, each carrying its own story.
- The Churn Dash block is one of the earliest and simplest patchwork designs.
- It’s a versatile block, serving as a building block for more complex patterns.
- Names like Churn Dash and Monkey Wrench often reflect the block’s use in storytelling and folk tradition.
- Learning this block connects us to the roots of American and global quilting heritage.
Stay tuned this month as we walk step-by-step through building your own nine patch block. By mastering this historic pattern, you'll not only enhance your quilting skills, but also embrace traditions passed down through generations.
The Churn Dash: A Reflection of American Life
A Churn Dash block is a classic quilt block, featuring a central square framed by four half-square triangles and four distinctive rectangle-shaped "dash" units. Quilters often use high-contrast, simple fabrics to highlight the bold design and maximize its visual impact.
History
Emerging in the early 1800s, this quilt block became a staple among pioneer women, as its design beautifully reflected daily life on the homestead. Because of its straightforward construction using simple shapes, it was often the very first quilt block pattern taught to young girls. Like many traditional 19th century quilt blocks, patterns were often shared among women living in isolated homesteads, but their names didn't always travel with them. As a result, different names were given to blocks often based on different utilitarian household items they resembled. For instance, the "Churn Dash" pattern earned its name because its design looks like a butter churn viewed from above, while the "Monkey Wrench" pattern was inspired by the tool used for repairing wagon wheels. Some other popular names for these blocks include Double Monkey Wrench, Shoo Fly, Hole in the Barn Door, and Lincoln Platform.
Let's get all of our supplies ready!
Whichever fabrics you choose, your mystery quilt will look amazing! Use your own fabric scraps and follow the red, light, and blue cues for a patriotic feel, or pick your favorite colors and match the light and dark values for a unique scrappy style.
(These notions are just my recommendations)
For our Mystery Quilt - Month 4, you will need:
- Fabrics
- Creative Grids® Quilt Ruler 6½" x 6½" or Creative Grids® Quilt Ruler 4½" x 12½"
-
Crisp Fabric Spray
(Edyta’s Tip: I like to press all my fabric ahead of cutting. I use Crisp for a nice finish!) - Aurifil Thread – 2310, 2326, or 2312 recommended
- Sew Daisy Fabric Markers (Use fabric markers to stay organized)
- Olfa Folding Mat
- Olfa Rotary and Blades
(Edyta’s Tip: Always have a stash of fresh blades for your rotary and remember to change your rotary blade) - Pins, Scissors, Needle Threader
- Microtex Needles 70/10
Once you have all your materials ready, it’s time to start this month’s mystery quilt block!
Block 4
5" x 5" unfinished
Make 4.
Cutting Directions:
Select three light fabrics and two dark fabrics.
Light Fabric:
4 light 2" squares for center
16 light 1¼" x 2" rectangles
16 light half-square triangles (HST) cut from 8 – 2⅜" squares
4 light 1¼" corner squares
4 light 1¼" x 30½" strips for inner border
Red/Pink Fabric:
16 red/pink half-square triangles (HST) cut from 8 – 2⅜" squares
Blue Fabric:
16 blue 1¼" x 2" rectangles
NOTE: I am using 4 different red/pink fabrics and 1 blue fabric to give blocks a bit more shading.
NOTE: I will be pressing seam allowances open in this block.
Block Assembly
Arrange one light 1¼" x 2" rectangle and one blue 1¼" x 2" rectangle to make "dash" unit.
Sew rectangles together and press. Make 16 "dash" units.
To make one HST unit, arrange and sew one red 2⅜" HST and one light 2⅜" HST together.
Press seams. Make 16 HST units.
Arrange four HST units, four "dash" units, and 1 light center 2" square into rows as shown.
Sew into rows and sew rows together. Press seams.
Final units should be 5" x 5" unfinished.
Using last month's blocks, assemble around the quilt center as shown.
Sew into three rows as shown.
Sew rows together and press.
Inner Border Assembly
Arrange and sew four light 1¼" x 30½" inner borders and four light 1¼" corner squares to quilt center. Press seams.
Working on a mystery quilt project is an exciting and enjoyable experience. Each new clue reveals a different block, inspiring creativity and keeping the process fresh. As you assemble each section, you embark on a unique quilting journey. Savor every stitch as your one-of-a-kind masterpiece takes shape!
COLOR OPTION
Take a look at our red, white, and blue inspiration for your next mystery quilt project! Whether you love classic Americana shades or want to explore bold, modern combinations, the options are truly endless. Let your creativity shine as you mix and match fabrics that excite you most. Dive into your favorite patterns, select vibrant prints, and create a unique masterpiece that reflects your personal style. The beauty of quilting is in making it your own, so don't be afraid to experiment with different textures and tones, this is your chance to craft something truly special.
Many of you have asked if I could create a scrappy look for our Mystery Quilt. In this example, I combined fabrics from the Farmer's Daughter, Square Dance, and Laundry Line collections to give it a more traditional feel. I can't wait for you to see the finished quilt!
Collect your patterns each month as I introduce new color options. This month we're adding the block below showing the color option using our Quiltessential Fabric Collection!
We have Quiltessential Fat Quarter Bundle and Quiltessential Neutral Bundle below if you like this colorway for your Mystery Quilt 2026.
We're also adding the blocks below showing the color option using our new Jingle Bell Fabric Collection!
Check out our festive Jingle Bell Bundles below - perfect if you love this collection for your Mystery Quilt 2026!
I absolutely love seeing how each of you puts your own unique spin on these projects. The creativity and personal style you bring to every block are always so inspiring. I’m genuinely excited to see the beautiful color combinations and inventive patterns you come up with this time. I hope you enjoyed making this block right alongside me! It’s always such a joy to connect with fellow quilters and share in the process. I’m already looking forward to our next quilting adventure when next month’s block is revealed! Until then, happy quilting and keep sharing your amazing creations, I can’t wait to see what you make next!
Happy Quilting!
Edyta
Please remember to share your mystery quilt progress photos to Instagram and Facebook and watch our weekly LIVE show "Quilting Window" on our YouTube Channel!
Tag us @laundrybasketquilts and #mysteryquilt2026