Bow Tie Quilt Block Tutorial | 3D Effect in the Center

In this tutorial, Bob demonstrates how to make a three-dimensional bow tie quilt block using simple 5-inch fabric squares. He explains each step of the process, from folding and layering the fabric to stitching and assembling the block. Viewers learn how to create the raised center effect that gives the bow tie its signature look and discover tips for managing bulk in the seams. Bob also shares advice on choosing the right fabrics, noting that high-contrast colors work best to make the design stand out. The video is a fun and easy project for quilters of any level, with a unique and eye-catching result.

Take a look at this bow tie block. It’s pretty neat, don’t you think? If I were a clown, I could probably wear one this big—but I’m not. The center of this block is actually three-dimensional. You can see it’s sewn into all four sides, creating that raised effect. So, how do we make this happen? I’ll show you. It’s different from anything we’ve done before, but I know you can do it. It’s surprisingly simple and doesn’t take much fabric.

To make one bow tie quilt block, you’ll need five 5-inch squares. If you have charm packs, those are perfect since they’re already the right size. You’ll need three squares for the bow tie itself—I'm using red for mine—and two for the background.

Start by laying one bow tie square in front of you. Take another bow tie square, fold it in half, and place it on top of the first one. You can press it if you like, but it’s not necessary. Next, take a background square and lay it face down on top to make a little sandwich. Stitch a quarter-inch seam down the side. When I first tried this, I thought, “Wait, really? Down that side?” But yes, that’s correct.

Once it’s sewn, open it up. You’ll see something interesting—the background on one side and the bow tie fabric on the other, with a flap in the middle. Now, lay it down with the bow tie fabric facing you. We’ll repeat that same step with the remaining bow tie pieces. Take another folded red piece, line it up along the edge, and cover it with the last background square. Stitch another quarter-inch seam down that side.

When you open it up this time, you’ll have two bow tie sections with background fabric on opposite sides and a small folded piece in the center. That little center piece is the secret to creating the 3D effect. Open it gently in the opposite direction, then match up the center seams. Keep the outer pieces flat while lining up the middle seam, and pin it in place.

To sew it, lay one bow tie section face up, then place the center piece on top, aligning it with the edges. Cover it with a background square. Pin near the center to hold it in place. Don’t try to pin all the way down—it won’t work because of the bulk in the middle. Start sewing from one edge to the center pin, remove the pin, then realign the bottom half and sew from the center to the end. Trust me, I’ve tested it many times, and that’s the only way to get it right.

Once it’s sewn, you’ll see the fabric bulge slightly where the 3D center sits. That’s what gives it shape. Press your seams carefully, either to one side or open, but avoid creasing the raised bow tie itself.

After making a few, I realized they come together quickly once you get the hang of it. They’re fun and unique, but I found that using fabric with too many busy patterns makes the design harder to see. High-contrast fabrics work best, like blue and yellow or red and white, because they really make the bow tie pop.

I hope you’ll give this bow tie block a try. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share—and as always, happy sewing!