Pioneer Braid Square

Cut 3 strips 2 ½ x 18 ½ of a dark color.
Cut about 34 2 1/2" X 6" rectangles, and two 2 ½ “ squares from various fabric scraps.
Sew a 2 1/2" square to the side of one rectangle, like this:

Continue sewing strips on alternate sides, matching the top edge of the one side of the new strip with the narrow end of the strip you just sewed on, like this:
Sew til you have a piece big enough to trim down to 6 ½ x 18 ½. Remember, there is some waste, so be sure you don’t start cutting til you are absolutely sure you have your strip long enough.


Once you have 2 of these units, sew them together, going opposite directions with three 2 ½ x18 ½” strips.

Here is one layout you may like. I have a different one in mind for these blocks, but am waiting for my co worker to finish the center appliqued block which will be surrounded by these squares.