Tumbler Block Quilts – Learn How to Make Beautiful Quilts Using the Easy and Fun Tumbler Block Pattern

Everything You Need to Know About Tumbler Block Quilts

If you’re searching for “tumbler block quilts”, chances are you want to learn more about this classic quilt pattern. From my experience working with quilters over the years, tumbler blocks are a perennial favorite among those looking to make simple yet stunning quilt tops. In this in-depth guide, I’ll answer all your questions about tumbler blocks and provide everything you need to know to start making your own tumbler block quilt.

What is a Tumbler Block?

Basically, a tumbler block is a nine-patch quilt block made from four triangular pieces arranged around a center square. The triangular pieces are rotated, or “tumbled”, to form the block shape. Each block is made from just two different fabrics – one for the triangles and another for the center square. When sewn together in a grid pattern, tumbler blocks create patterns that kind of resemble tumbling dice, hence the name.

History of Tumbler Blocks

Tumbler blocks date back to the 1800s and were popular with pioneer women because of their simplicity. With just minimal scraps of fabric, pioneers could piece together warm, colorful quilts using the rotary cut-and-piece technique of tumbler blocks. Over time, the pattern spread across the Midwest and became iconically “American” like apple pie. Today tumbler blocks remain a beloved classic for their neat, compact design and ability to transform minimal materials into beautiful blankets.

Making Individual Tumbler Blocks

Here’s a step-by-step on constructing a single tumbler block:

1. Cut four triangles from your triangle fabric – each triangle should measure half the finished block size.
2. Cut one square from your square fabric to match the finished block size.
3. Arrange the triangles around the square with points touching in the center.
4. Stitch the triangles to the square, starting with one side and working clockwise.
5. Flip the stitched pieces over and press seams towards the triangles for a crisp finish.
6. Your tumbler block is complete! Repeat to make as many blocks as your quilt requires.

The good thing about tumbler blocks is that they involve simple rotary cutting and piecing – no fussy shapes to match up. Even beginners can totally nail the construction. Sort of makes you wonder how those pioneer grandmas cranked them out so fast!

Assembling the Quilt Top

Once you’ve pieced all your tumbler blocks, it’s time to join them into the quilt top. Here are the basic steps:

1. Lay out your blocks in rows, alternating block orientations for visual interest.
2. Sew blocks into horizontal rows with a 1/4″ seam allowance, pressing seams to one side as you go.
3. Join rows together, nesting seams and continuing to press one direction for a smooth, professional look.
4. When all rows are joined, your quilt top is finished! Time to add batting and backing.

You can arrange tumbler blocks in simple grids or get creative with design orientations. Remember, tumbler blocks are the definition of customizable – basically just play around until you find a layout you vibe with.

Tumbler Block Quilt Patterns

If following a pre-made pattern is more your style, there are heaps of gorgeous tumbler block quilt designs available. Here are a few of my faves:

Tumbleweed Quilt – A windblown tumbler block layout that looks awesome in earthy tonals.

Grandma’s Favorite – Classic stacked rows of multicolored blocks for retro cabin vibes.

Dancing Dice – Rotated blocks form pinwheel star shapes across the quilt top.

Tumbling Tumbleweeds – Scattered tumbler blocks in a prairie-inspired arrangement.

Trip Around the Block – Playful cat’s paw corner blocks frame a central tumbler medallion.

No matter the specific pattern, tumbler blocks always deliver modern farmhouse charm in spades. Throw one of these beauties on the bed and cozy cottagecore dreams will surely follow!

Fabric and Color Selection

When it comes to fabrics, the world is your oyster with tumbler blocks. But in general, stick to medium or bold scales and avoid tiny prints that could get lost. Here’s a quick rundown of fab combo ideas:

For the triangles:
– Polka dots
– Florals
– Geometric prints
– Tweeds
– Folksy reproductions

For the centers:
– Solids
– Low-volume prints
– Tweeds
– Texture prints
– Scraps from the triangle fabrics

As for colors, you basically can’t go wrong with classic Americana palettes like navy and white, pinks and greys, or prairie-inspired earth tones. But if you’re feeling bold, tumbler blocks also look dope in jewel tones or bright rainbow schemes. The options are endless!

Completing Your Quilt

Once the quilt top is complete, it’s time for some finishing steps. Here’s a brief overview:

1. Layer the quilt top with batting and backing fabric.
2. Baste the layers together with safety pins or spray basting to prepare for quilting.
3. Quilt as desired – I think tumbler blocks look especially nice with an allover meander or grid pattern.
4. Bind the raw edges with a 2.5″ strip of fabric to finish the front.
5. Make a label to celebrate your completed quilt!

The binding is the true home stretch. Sew it on with care to enjoy your tumbler masterpiece for many cozy years to come. What a work of art, yo!

Tips and Tricks

Finally, here are a few pro tips I’ve picked up over the years working with tumbler blocks:

• Use a clear template or drawn lines on paper to cut perfect triangles every time.
• Stay organized by storing cut pieces in zip bags or envelopes separated by fabric.
• Square up blocks as you go for accurate piecing down the line.
• Press seam allowances open for a flatter surface when joining rows.
• Show off the quilting stitches on tumbler blocks by basting with open spaces.

Hope this mega guide gave you all the deets on making tumbler block quilts! Let me know if you have any other questions. These funky little blocks are seriously one of the most versatile patterns around – you can knock one out in no time but they always impress. Maybe someday our paths will cross in a quilt show, and I can ogle your tumbler masterpiece in person. Until then, happy stitching!

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tumbler Block Quilt Pattern

FAQ

1. What is a tumbler block quilt?

   A tumbler block quilt basically uses triangular pieces of fabric that are sewn together in columns to form squares. These square blocks are then joined with sashing to make the overall quilt top.

2. How many different sizes of triangles do you need?

   You’ll need 3 differing sizes of triangles to make each tumbler block. The big triangles sit at the corners with 2 middle size triangles on either side and the littlest triangles filling in the middle. It takes some work figuring out the right shapes!

3. Is it difficult to sew the triangles together?

   Putting together the first few tumbler blocks may be kind of challenging as you get used to the funky triangle shapes. However, once you figure out the layout it really isn’t too tough. The trick is to pin well and take it slow. Before you know it, you’ll have a whole quilt top done!

4. What fabrics work best for tumbler blocks?

   Bold prints with good contrast between light and dark areas allow the triangular design to really shine through. On the other hand, tiny prints might make the pieces hard to distinguish. Solids or tone-on-tone fabrics could work also, but may not be as visually striking.

5. How many blocks will I need for a full size quilt?

   A standard size quilt usually requires between 40-50 blocks. The precise number depends on how wide you make the sashing strips between blocks. You’ll want to do some calculating or mock-ups to ensure your design has enough blocks to cover the batting inside the planned borders.

6. What’s so amazing about tumbler block quilts?

   Despite being formed from basic triangles, tumbler blocks have a stunning 3D effect that makes the quilt almost “pop” off the surface. The rotating triangular motif is also endlessly fascinating to look at. Some quilters believe working the intricate angles has a calming or meditative effect, maybe due to the geometry. Whatever the reason, tumbler quilts remain perennially popular!

   

7. Are all tumbler blocks exactly the same?

   While the common tripod triangle design is the defining characteristic, crafty quilters have come up with some innovative twisted variations on the traditional tumbler block pattern. More adventurous sewers have experimented with uneven block sizing, extra- pointed triangle corners, or diagonal block setting arrangements. With a little ingenuity, tumbler quilts can be customized to fit any style.