Churn Dash
Country Charm

The Churn Dash is a very old 9-Patch quilt block pattern, originating between 1800 and 1849. Its name is a result of the resemblance of the triangle and rectangle perimeter of the block to a butter churn and the center square to the stick (or “dash”) of the butter churn.

The pattern is a simple design for beginners, as well as challenging for designers because it lends itself well to very intricate designs.

Much has been written about the Churn Dash or Monkey Wrench pattern being used in the mid-1800s as a clue to assist runaway slaves by the Underground Railroad. As romantic as that notion may be, there are many scholars who insist that for a variety of reasons it is not very likely.

The exceedingly simple combination of triangles and squares of the Churn Dash pattern makes it easy to learn and construct, while also providing opportunities to create stunning quilts with intricate designs.

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