Chandelier Quilt Block Tutorial + Tips & Tricks

This blog post features the Chandelier quilt block, also known as Beads, an elegant yet simple design made entirely from squares and rectangles with no triangles required. Using fabrics from Benartex’s Gratitude and Grace collection, the post explains how the block comes together in three easy rows and how bold colors truly shine against a black background. It also explores layout and finishing options, including filling side gaps with black triangles or trimming the design to extend to the quilt’s edge, offering flexibility for different quilt styles.

This is such a beautiful quilt block design, commonly known as the Chandelier quilt block and sometimes referred to as Beads. I have seen it called both names, and regardless of what you call it, the result is elegant and eye-catching. Even better, this block is surprisingly simple to make, which makes it especially appealing.

The pieces involved are straightforward. You begin with a 5 inch square of fabric for the center. The fabric I used comes from the Gratitude and Grace collection by Benartex Fabrics, which we will link in the description. The colors in this collection pair beautifully with a black background and really allow the design to stand out. In addition to the center square, you will need two small squares measuring 2 and 1/2 inches each. An easy way to get these is by taking another 5 inch square and cutting it in half, then in half again, which gives you four small squares, two more than you need.

You will also need two rectangles measuring 2 and 1/2 inches by 5 inches and two rectangles measuring 2 and 1/2 inches by 7 inches. With these pieces ready, assembly is quick and intuitive. Start by stitching the two 5 inch rectangles to either side of the center square and pressing them open. Next, attach the small squares to the 7 inch rectangles, stitching and pressing them so they form the outer edges of the block.

Once the pieces are prepared, the block comes together in three simple rows. Stitch the top row to the middle row, then add the bottom row. There are no triangles involved at all, which is one of the things I love most about this design. Despite the simplicity of the construction, the finished block has a refined, geometric look that feels much more complex than it actually is.

This block looks especially striking against a black background, so choosing colorful fabrics will really enhance the overall effect. I made several blocks using four different color combinations, and seeing them come together in a larger layout really shows how versatile this design can be. Although the block appears diamond-shaped when viewed on point, it is actually constructed entirely from squares and rectangles.

When arranging the blocks, you have a couple of finishing options. One option is to fill in the open side gaps with black triangles to create a clean, square quilt layout. To do this, cut a 9 inch square of black fabric and slice it diagonally to create two triangles that fit perfectly into the open spaces. Another option is to trim the blocks so the design extends all the way to the edge, which creates a bold look when the quilt is bound. If you choose this method, be sure to leave an extra quarter inch beyond the design for the seam allowance.

The Chandelier quilt block is a wonderful project with a beautiful outcome and a surprisingly easy construction. I hope you will give it a try, follow us on Facebook, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and as always, happy sewing.