A quilter's favourite - the twelve inch quilt block. These are probably the most commonly used. The measurements divide easily and evenly for quick calculations. Whether the goal is a bed-sized quilt or a cuddle quilt in an afghan size, a 12" quilt block is your go-to choice.

Garden Square

Sample Quilt Layouts

The Garden Square quilt block is designed as an "optical illusion" and is created using different values of the same colour fabric. A similar block uses this same idea -- Folded Corners -- and I would consider the Garden Square block as the next step for your skills. See if you can spot the different in the two blocks.

In order to break up the monochrome look of the block when placed in a quilt, I have added an extra pop of colour in both of the quilt layouts shown below. The red adds just that little bit of "pizzazz" in the quilt design. Both of these quilt layouts place the block on point, but with very different results. What is your preference?

Check out other "optical illusion" blocks:
~ Folded Corners
~ Formal Frame
~ Interlocking Chain
~ Plaited Block
~ Ribbon Star
~ Twisted Ribbon

Download the GARDEN SQUARE free quilt block pattern

BACK to GARDEN SQUARE quilt block