Discover 100+ traditional and modern quilt block patterns. From beginner-friendly designs to intricate masterpieces - all free to use.
Quilt blocks are the building blocks of beautiful quilts. Whether you're a beginner learning your first pattern or an experienced quilter seeking inspiration, this comprehensive guide covers the most popular and beloved quilt blocks.
Time-tested classics that have been loved for generations
The ultimate beginner block. Nine equal squares sewn in a 3×3 grid. Simple construction but endless design possibilities through color placement and arrangement.
Strips of fabric ("logs") sewn around a center square. Creates stunning secondary patterns when blocks are arranged together. Perfect for scrappy quilts.
Triangle units that create directional movement. Each unit has one large triangle flanked by two smaller triangles. Creates dynamic visual flow in quilts.
Classic eight-pointed star using quarter-square triangles. Creates dramatic star patterns. Great for showcasing special fabrics in the center and points.
Also called Monkey Wrench. Features corner squares and four identical units creating an X pattern. Traditional Americana quilt design.
Complex traditional block featuring multiple small pieces creating a paw-like appearance. Requires precision but creates stunning results.
Variation of Log Cabin where logs are added to opposite sides. Creates a ladder-like appearance and works beautifully with two contrasting color families.
Circular floral design made from wedge-shaped petals. Often appliquéd to background fabric. Creates beautiful flower-like motifs.
Four half-square triangles create a spinning pinwheel effect. Quick to make and creates wonderful movement in quilt designs.
Simple four-patch variation creates the appearance of bow ties. Uses squares and rectangles for easy, scrappy quilts.
Nine-patch blocks alternating with plain squares creates a sophisticated secondary pattern. More complex than simple nine-patch but still beginner-friendly.
Optical illusion block using triangles to create overlapping card appearance. Requires careful fabric placement for maximum impact.
Contemporary designs with clean lines and bold aesthetics
Oversized HSTs used in contemporary layouts with negative space. Clean, graphic look popular in modern quilting.
Free-form piecing without templates. Wonky angles and irregular shapes create modern, artistic quilts.
Simple plus shape on solid background. Clean, minimalist aesthetic. Often made scrappy with varied plus colors.
Contemporary take on traditional X blocks. Bold, graphic appearance with lots of negative space.
Small squares create gradient or pixelated effects. Modern technique for creating images and gradients in quilts.
Directional arrow shapes in bold solids. Create movement and contemporary graphic impact.
Intricate designs made precise with paper piecing
Intricate variation of Log Cabin with angled logs creating spiky pineapple shape. Stunning results worth the effort.
Complex circular design with precise points. Foundation piecing makes this traditional block more accessible.
Curved piecing with spiky arc design. Dramatic traditional block easier with foundation piecing methods.
Radiating wedges create mesmerizing kaleidoscope effect. Fussy cutting and precise piecing create stunning results.
Quiltler 3 includes a comprehensive library of traditional and modern quilt blocks. Design your quilt, calculate fabric automatically, and export professional cutting instructions.
Access Pattern Library FreeStart with simple blocks that use basic shapes:
Expand your skills with blocks featuring multiple units:
Challenge yourself with complex blocks:
Choose a block size that divides evenly into your desired quilt dimensions:
One of the most exciting aspects of quilt blocks is how they create unexpected patterns when arranged together:
With digital design tools, you can visualize exactly how your chosen blocks will look together before cutting any fabric!
Ready to turn these patterns into a beautiful quilt? Quiltler 3 gives you access to hundreds of quilt blocks with the ability to:
Free to try • Works on iPhone & iPad