Modern Cathedral Window Block Tutorial

Photos and tips for making the "Modern" Cathedral Window block.  I hope this helps!

Each block consists of one 6 1/2" background fabric square, four 3 1/2" background fabric squares and one 3 1/2" colored fabric for the "stained glass."

I cut mine using my June Tailor Short Cut strip cutting mat, then subcut into squares.

Fold the large square in half with the fold at the bottom.  Sandwich two small squares on each end of the folded square, matching raw edges and stitch down each end through all thicknesses.  The folded square will be a little shorter than the 3 1/2 inch squares.  This is your seam allowance.  I used a shorter stitch length and a scant 1/4" seam allowance.

Open the folded large square and bring raw edges together, matching seams. Finger press the seams in opposing directions so they will "snug up." 

I use several pins to hold the raw edges together until stitched.

 Press the seam open to decrease bulk in the block.  Turn over and press the top folded diamond.

Center the colored fabric square in the diamond.  Fold the center sides of the folded diamond over the raw edges of the colored fabric and pin each side.  I pin all four sides then lap the left point over the right and pin the first corner to be sewn. I start topstiching in this corner and sew clockwise around the center square, pinning the other three corners as I reach them.  Note the directional placement of my pins, with the heads toward me.  It is easier to remove the pins as I reach them in this direction.   Use a longer stitch for topstitching. 

Viola!  The completed Modern Cathedral Window block!