Different Directions Quilt Block With Bob | Step-by-Step Tutorial
I call this one Different Directions because the finished design reminds me of one of those signs with arrows pointing every which way. It creates a really interesting look, but the block itself is incredibly simple to make. There are no half-square triangles and no complicated techniques, just straightforward cutting and piecing.
The entire quilt is made from one simple 9-inch quilt block that gets turned in different directions to create the overall design. I used our Oyster Shell #11 fabric, which we print right here at Sewing Parts Online, paired with a white background. Once you see how quickly this block comes together, I think you’ll have a lot of fun playing around with the layout and creating your own Different Directions quilt!
What I Cut for Each Block
For my print fabric, I cut:
-
One 5-inch square
-
Two 2 1/2" x 4 3/4" strips
-
Two 2 1/2" x 5" strips
For my white background fabric, I cut:
-
Two 2 1/2" x 4 3/4" strips
Step 1: Make the Top and Bottom Units
I start by taking one of my 2 1/2" x 4 3/4" print strips and pairing it with one of my 2 1/2" x 4 3/4" white strips.
I stitch those two pieces together along the long edge and press the seam. I like to press to the dark side.
Then I repeat the same process with my remaining print and white strips. When I’m finished, I have two matching units, one for the top of my block and one for the bottom.
Step 2: Add the Side Strips
Next, I take my 5-inch center square and my two 2 1/2" x 5" print strips.
I sew one strip to each side of the center square. Once they’re attached, I press my seams.
Step 3: Complete the Block
Now it’s simply a matter of putting everything together.
I sew one of the units from Step 1 across the top of my center section and the other across the bottom. I press my seams, and that’s it!
I now have a finished Different Directions quilt block.
Step 4: Create the Different Directions Design
The fun really starts when I put several blocks together. I simply rotate the blocks so they face different directions throughout the quilt.
That simple change in orientation creates all of the movement you see in the finished design. It looks much more complicated than it actually is!
This was honestly one of the fastest blocks I’ve made. It came together so quickly that even I was surprised by how simple it was. Give it a try, experiment with your fabrics and block placement, and see where your Different Directions quilt takes you.
As always, happy sewing!
