Wasn't this an old John Wayne movie?

Today's block is called Rio Grande Crossing. (Where do they come up with these names anyway?) But I digress. It is a simple nine patch block, but with lots of half square triangle patches, your only concern in making the block is to be precise in sewing the quarter inch seam allowance. A little too big seam here, or a too small seam there, doesn't seem like a big deal. However, all of these little errors compound as you make more and more seams, and before you know it, your seams do not match within any "fudging" distance. So, if you are sewing with a machine,  the small investment in a special quarter inch seam foot is the best investment you could make.

Rio Grande Crossing quilts

I chose to show you quilt samples this time, rather than the quilt block, because quite frankly, I thought the block was rather boring. These images might show you that, with some simple rotations and some additional colour, you can make a really special quilt.

(And yes, John Wayne and the Rio Grande made a movie together.)

The Wisdom (and the humour) of "the Duke"

• "Life is hard. It's harder if you're stupid."
• "Get off your horse and drink your milk."
• "I've loved reading all my life."

and for all of those people who love Mondays ...


• "Don't say it's a fine morning or I'll shoot ya."

_{'Rio Grande Crossing' quilt images © W. Russell, patchworksquare.com
John Wayne image courtesy public domain}