We had a small pile of 5 inch cherry left over from a previous project, and a decent stack of 1&1/2 red oak as well.

We took the 5 inch cherry and cut it into 10 inch long strips, routed both cut ends and put two pieces together to make a 10x10 cherry block, we installed them on opposing 45 degree angles with a strip of 1&1/2 red oak surrounding everything.
Sanded and applied 1 coat bona amberseal (we were amazed at the "oil look" it provided) and it flowed very good for having the floor going every which way. 3 coats bona traffic on top

I love it! The quarter turned blocks look swell.