Everything You Need to Know About Quilt Block Outlines
If you’ve ever wondered about the basics of quilt block outlines, you’ve come to the right place. As someone who has sewn many quilt blocks in my time, I wanted to share all the insider knowledge I’ve picked up along the way. By the end of this article, your questions about block outlines will be answered – and you’ll be well on your way to creative quiltmaking success!
What is a Quilt Block Outline?
To start, let’s define what a quilt block outline actually is. Put basically, a quilt block outline is like a stencil or template that you can use to trace the shape of a quilt block piece. It shows the edges and dimensions of each individual fabric piece that will come together to form the completed quilt block.
Quilt block outlines come in all different styles – some are drawn or printed on paper, while others exist as plastic or acrylic templates you can place over fabric and cut around. The outline makes sure each piece is cut to the right size and shape. This helps your pieces fit together just right when you start piecing the block!
Why Are Outlines Useful?
There are some awesome reasons why quilt block outlines are a quilter’s BFF. First of all, they guarantee accuracy. Following a precise outline means your pieces will be uniform in size. This is key for getting that perfect point-to-point match when sewing. Outlines also save time – no more sketching shapes freehand on each fabric scrap. Just place fabric under the outline and cut.
They’re also great for beginners who are still learning their way around block designs. The outlines act like step-by-step instructions to clearly show the process. And hey, we all mess up sometimes – outlines let you easily trace and cut replacement pieces if needed. From my experience, clear outlines are basically like training wheels for learning new blocks.
Where Can You Find Outlines?
Luckily, quilt block outlines are pretty much everywhere these days. The most basic source is good old paper patterns – both vintage and modern designs are widely available. Books and magazines always include outline drawings too. If you’re feeling crafty, you can even make your own by hand-drawing shapes on template plastic or mat board.
These days though, the coolest source has gotta be the internet. Not only can you find outlines for basically any block under the sun, but many are offered in multiple formats. PDF patterns can be printed on any printer. Digital downloads allow for on-screen tracing. Some sites even provide laser-cut templates you can purchase. The options are endless!
Tips for Using Outlines
Now that you know all about quilt block outlines, let me give you some tips for putting them to good use:
- Transfer outline shapes to template materials like mat board for durability.
- Mark Sewing and Cutting lines clearly so you know where to place and cut fabric.
- Tape or weight outlines flat on work surface as you cut to prevent slipping.
- Double check dimensions before cutting – outlines aren’t always to scale.
- Label each piece as you cut to keep organized .
And I can’t stress this enough – always cut with the outline between you and the fabric, not under it. This way your hand doesn’t wander outside the lines as you cut. Rookie mistake, been there!
Tips for Choosing and Using the Right Outline
When selecting outlines, look closely at the style and size. Choose clear, simple drawings appropriate for your skill and fabric choices. While tiny details look nice, they can get kinda confusing. Also check dimensions – smaller blocks lend themselves to quilting newbies.
As for using outlines, it’s key to think through the whole block construction process. Lay out all pattern pieces before cutting to visualize how it will come together. Consider pressing and marking directional arrows on fabric for easy piecing later on, too.
I’ve also found it handy to trace outline shapes onto wax or tissue paper first, then cut multiple copies for remaking pieces without wasting good fabric. Makes the block freakin’ foolproof. Those are just some tips I’ve learned over my years of quilting – hope they help you on your quilt making journey!
Real-Life Examples
To really drive the outline tips home, here are a couple examples from my own quilting practice. A while back, I decided to make a sampler quilt featuring a different block each month. Sounded easy enough in theory, but boy did some of those fiddly outlines give me grief!
The Nine Patch was simple and went like gangbusters. But the Flying Geese… talk about a pain, getting those pointy triangles even and straight. Wrecked about five copies before getting the hang. Moral of the story? Sometimes the simplest looking blocks can cause the biggest headaches! Practice on scrap fabric first if you’re unsure.
Another time, I took on a big Log Cabin quilt but printed the PDF patterns way too small. Those fiddly borders were impossible! Like, the instructions said “sew a 1/4 inch seam” but the printed line was more like an 1/8 inch. Disaster, I tell ya. Always check printed outlines for proper scale before diving in.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, quilt block outlines are truly a quilter’s best friend. They make piecing so much easier – and more accurate too. Whether using vintage patterns, printed templates or digital downloads, outlines provide valuable guidance. While you’ll surely improve with experience, clear outlines act as training wheels until piecing becomes second nature. So don’t be afraid to rely on ’em, especially when tackling tricky blocks!
I hope this gives you a thorough crash course on the various outline options and essential tips. Feel free to ask if any other questions come up – I’m always happu to help fellow quilters. Now get out there and start tracing those shapes! Happy quilting everyone.
Quilt Block Outline Options
| Block Name | Suitable Fabrics | Difficulty Level | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nine Patch | Solid colors, prints | Beginner | 9″ x 9″ |
| Four Patch | Contrasting colors | Beginner | 4 1/2″ x 4 1/2″ |
| Dresden Plate | Bold prints | Intermediate | 12″ diameter |
| Flying Geese | Directional prints | Advanced | Variable |
| Log Cabin | Multiple solid fabrics | Intermediate | Variable |
FAQ
-
What is a quilt block outline?
A quilt block outline is basically like a template or pattern that quilters use to stitch together different shapes of fabric into a completed quilt square or block. It shows where to place and sew each piece of fabric.
-
Why do quilters use block outlines?
Quilters use block outlines to sort of guide them as they piece together their quilts. The outlines let quilters know exactly how big to cut each fabric piece and where it goes in relation to the other pieces. This helps quilters arrange everything neatly and evenly so the finished blocks come out looking balanced and put together right.
-
Where do quilters get block outlines?
There’s a variety of places where quilters can get block outlines. Many times they will follow outlines from quilt pattern books or magazines. Quilters may go to the library or search online to reference different outlines too. Quilt shops and fabric stores also provide free outlines or sell outline collections. Quilters can even come up with their own original outlines!
-
How do I read a quilt block outline?
Reading a quilt block outline is actually pretty straightforward. The outline shows the dimensions for cutting each fabric piece and uses tabs, notches or numbers to indicate where each tab goes in relation to the others. The orientation of the block like “right sides up” or “left side down” is clearly stated. With just a little practice, anyone can learn to interpret the outlines and use them to piece perfect quilt blocks!
-
Is drawing my own block outlines difficult?
Drawing your own quilt block outlines isn’t necessarily that tough, but it takes some practice to get good at it. You gotta learn how to clearly show the size and placement of each piece so others can follow your design. Maybe start simple and work your way up to more complex shapes? Luckily there’s awesome quilt design software and online communities that offer guidance. With the right references and some experimenting, creating unique outlines is totally doable!
-
What kinds of blocks have popular outlines?
Some of the most common and well-loved quilt block outlines include blocks like Nine Patch, Four Patch, Drunkard’s Path, Sawtooth Star and Flying Geese. Traditional block outlines for Log Cabin and Ohio Star are also familiars that quilt books are just loaded with. Of course straight-set blocks which use only squares like Irish Chain, Blockade Runner or Courthouse Steps are awesome too! But like they say, “variety is the quilt of life” so explore different outline styles.