Blocks & shapes

Set a block's size and drafting grid

In the block builder's left panel, Finished size sets how big the block is and Drafting grid how many squares it's divided into: three across for a nine patch, five for a 25-patch.

Where to find it

Block builder → left panel → Finished size and Drafting grid

Open the block builder
In the block builder, Width goes from 12 to 10 inches and the height follows, then Squares across and Squares down go from 4 to 5, and the empty block shows its new 5 by 5 drafting grid

How to do it

  1. Open a block in the block builder. If the left panel is hidden, show it from the button at its bottom left.
  2. Under Finished size, type the Width. With Keep it square on, the height follows; turn it off for an oblong block like flying geese.
  3. Under Drafting grid, type Squares across and Squares down, or the Square width and Square height you want. The block keeps its size.
  4. Press Fit under the block to see it all.

Good to know

  • Space around with Add 2″ all round makes the block bigger on every side and keeps the pieces the size you drew them, for a frame.
  • Changing the width stretches the grid squares and leaves the pieces where they are, so set the size before you start piecing.
Who can use it
Free with a Quiltler account
Where it works
Web studio

This guide answers

  • How do I make a 10 inch block?
  • How do I change the size of my block?
  • How do I change the grid to 5 by 5?
  • Can I make a rectangular block?
  • How do I add a frame around my block?
  • How do I make a nine patch grid?
  • How do I set the block grid to 5x5?