Creative Quilting: How to Add a Quilt Block to Your Sewing Patterns

To illustrate the process, I’ve selected our  Perfect Bag (model A) pattern available for free (only in French). I love this bag as it’s simple to make, is the perfect size, and will highlight your quilting work everywhere you go!

Interested by this project, but don’t have a quilt block ready?

 Here are two free patterns with a step-by-step video.

Tips and tricks to adapt your favourite patterns and incorporate a block. Grab your calculator!
*video available in french only*

For those of you who don’t want to attempt playing patternmaker, as explained in the video, here is everything you need to know to add a 12 ½ in x 12 ½ in quilt block to the perfect bag.

Seam allowance: To put this rectangle together, the seams must be at ¼ in. Seam allowances of ¼ in are already included in the cuts.

• A rotary cutter
• A cutting board
• A marking pen (my favourite is the Prym cartridge pencil)
• A basic ruler
• A quilting ruler (inches)
• A sewing machine
• Wonder clips or pins
• An unfinished 12 ½ in x 12 ½ in quilt block (no batting, unstitched)
• 50 cm (20 in) quilting cotton
• 1 m (39 3/8 in) of lining fabric (I strongly suggest lining your bag in order to hide all seam allowances)
• 1.5 m (59 in) of straps (don’t hesitate to adjust the length of your straps for your comfort)

CUTS

I recommend calculating in inches, as you did your quilt block, which will avoid any discrepancies between your block and other pieces.

• 1 x 20 in x 3 ¼ in rectangle
• 2 x 12 ½ in x 4 ¼ in rectangles
• 1 x 24 ¼ in x 20 in rectangle

PIECING

STEP 1 : Gather, right sides together, the two 12 ½ in x 4 ¼ in rectangles on each side of the quilt block;

STEP 2 : Then, put the two remaining rectangles on the two other sides, once again right sides together. If your block has a direction, make sure the 3 ¼ in rectangle is on the upper part and the 24 ¼ in one is at the bottom;

You can find next steps (in french only) here or by downloading the pdf pattern below (in french only). Follow the instructions to create lined model A.

We love to see your creations.

Feel free to share them with us through social media, using the hashtag #clubtissus.