Traditional / Public Domain — named for the butter churn, popular since the 1850s
Named after the cross-shaped handle of a butter churn, this nine-patch variation combines half-square triangles in the corners, rectangles on the sides, and a center square to create a design that evokes pioneer self-sufficiency and simple pleasures.
The Churn Dash pattern dates to the mid-1800s and takes its name from the wooden dasher used to churn butter. The cross-shaped center created by the rectangles mimics the shape of the churn handle. Making butter was a daily chore for pioneer women, and the pattern honors that labor.
Published in countless farm journals and newspaper quilt columns from the 1880s onward, the Churn Dash was a standard block in every quilter's repertoire. It teaches three essential techniques — squares, rectangles, and half-square triangles — making it an excellent learning block.
Also known as: Dash Churn, Double Monkey Wrench, Hole in the Barn Door, Sherman's March
finished Block Size
12"
seam Allowance
1/4"
grid Basis
3x3 grid (each unit finishes to 4")
units Required
4 HSTs + 4 rectangles + 1 center square
All measurements include 1/4" seam allowance unless noted.
| Piece | Fabric | Cut Size | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Center Square | Dark | 4 1/2" x 4 1/2" | 1 | — |
| Rectangle | Dark | 2 1/2" x 4 1/2" | 4 | Side positions |
| Rectangle | Light | 2 1/2" x 4 1/2" | 4 | Side positions |
| HST Square | Dark | 5 1/4" x 5 1/4" | 2 | Cut once diagonally |
| HST Square | Light | 5 1/4" x 5 1/4" | 2 | Cut once diagonally |
Draw a diagonal line on the wrong side of each light 5 1/4" square. Layer with dark squares right sides together. Sew 1/4" from each side of the line. Cut on the line. Press toward dark. Trim to 4 1/2". Makes 4 HSTs.
Sew one dark 2 1/2" x 4 1/2" rectangle to one light 2 1/2" x 4 1/2" rectangle along the long edge. Press toward dark. Make 4 of these units. Each should measure 4 1/2" square.
Layout: Row 1 = HST, Rectangle Unit (dark on outside), HST. Row 2 = Rectangle Unit (dark on top), Center Square, Rectangle Unit (dark on bottom). Row 3 = HST, Rectangle Unit (dark on outside), HST. The dark rectangles should form a cross/plus shape through the block.
Tip: Pay careful attention to the orientation of the HSTs and rectangles — the cross shape should be clear.
Sew the three units of Row 1 together with 1/4" seams. Press seams toward the center rectangle unit.
Repeat for Rows 2 and 3. Press seams in alternating directions for nesting.
Pin at each intersection, nesting seams. Sew rows together with 1/4" seams. Press.
Block should measure 12 1/2" square unfinished. The churn dash cross should be clearly visible.
See how this traditional pattern looks in different color combinations.
Straight set with alternating plain blocks
Sashed with cornerstones
On point with setting triangles