Go! Round the Mountain Mini Quilt Mystery, Clue One

Are you ready to begin the mystery? Make it easy on yourself and cross off the names of the colors used in this pattern and write in your colors before you begin. As always, this pattern assumes a perfect 1/4″ seam.  All block units are sewn right sides together.

WOF means Width of Fabric. Pressing means just holding the iron over an area briefly, not dragging the iron back and forth which might distort your seams.

Preparing the Charm Squares and Making the Center 16-Patch

From a set of at least (34) 5″ squares, set aside (16) of the ones that you like the best.  They will be in the center of the mini-quilt.

Cut the remaining (18) charm squares to 3″ square by cutting a 2″ x 5″ strip off one side. Keep the 2″ x 5″ strip but discard the remaining 3″ x 2″ piece.  (Yes, I know it’s hard. )

Sew the 2″ x 5″ pieces together so they make a 5″ x 27-1/2″ long colorful pieced strip. Press the seams to one side.

Trim the (16) charm squares to 4-1/2″ square.  Sew them in (4) rows of (4) each. Press the seams of the first and third row to the right.  Press the seams of the second and fourth row to the left. This will help your seams nest next to each other when you sew the rows together.  Sew the rows together and press the row seams in one direction. The center should measure 16-1/2″ x 16-1/2″.