QUILT BLOCK TUTORIAL: Simple Nine Patch Block

The nine patch quilt block is one of the most basic blocks but also one of the most versatile! It’s a great block for beginners and to use with kids to practice cutting, sewing even seams and pressing.

A simple nine patch block is made with 9 squares of the same size. There are a lot of ways to create more intricate 9 patch blocks but that’s for another day – let’s play with the basics!

9 patch quilt blocks are also an excellent way to use up the scraps you have from other projects.

Using my Homestead Life fabric from Riley Blake Designs I’m going to show you just how easy it is to create a variety of looks and layouts with a simple nine patch block.

Use those Fabric Scraps!

I started but grabbing scraps and cutting the prints into 2 1/2″ squares.

I tried fussy cutting the sayings from the main print to the same size but they were a little too big so for that block I used 3 1/2″ squares. 4″ squares would work equally as well if you want to play with the fun sayings.

Below is a chart that shows the block size to cut based on the finished size block you want.

After cutting and making pretty piles, I started playing with layouts and color combinations on my cutting table.

HOW TO MAKE A SIMPLE 9 PATCH BLOCK

Cut 9 pieces of fabric into 2 1/2″ squares.

I like to layout the block on a board or wool ironing mat so I can move it from my cutting table to my sewing machine to the ironing board and back, keeping the blocks in order the whole time.

With right sides together and using 1/4 inch seam allowance, sew the squares together in each row.

Press seams.

Sew rows together.

Press seams.

Not sure what to do with the block or blocks you made?

Here are a few ways to use your nine patch block(s): mug rug, quilt, zipper bag, tote bag, purse, table runner, pillow, pot holder, throw blanket, baby quilt… the possibilities are endless!

What will you try first?