Every Which Way Quilt Block Easy Tutorial for Beginners
The Every Which Way Quilt Block gets its name from the colorful arrowheads pointing in different directions. It is a unique block that looks complicated, but it comes together with simple piecing techniques.
Each finished block measures approximately 8½ inches square. When several blocks are placed together, the arrows create a fun, eye-catching design.
Fabric Requirements for One Block
Choose four different colors for the arrows and one background fabric. White was used as the background in this example.
All pieces are cut from 2½-inch-wide strips, so jelly roll strips work perfectly for this project.
Cut the following:
- Four 2½-inch squares, one from each color
- Four 2½ x 4½-inch rectangles, one from each color
- Eight 2½ x 3½-inch rectangles from the background fabric
One jelly roll strip from each of the four colors should make approximately six quilt blocks.
Step 1: Make the Center Four-Patch
Arrange the four 2½-inch colored squares into a four-patch.
Sew the top two squares together and then sew the bottom two squares together. Press the seams in opposite directions so they nest neatly.
Sew the two rows together to complete the center four-patch.
Set it aside while you make the arrowhead units.
Step 2: Make the Arrowhead Tops
Take one colored 2½ x 4½-inch rectangle and one background 2½ x 3½-inch rectangle.
Place the background rectangle on the upper-left corner of the colored rectangle, right sides together.
Draw a diagonal line from one corner of the background fabric to the opposite corner where it meets the colored fabric.
Sew directly on the drawn line.
Trim away the excess fabric, leaving a ¼-inch seam allowance. Press the background fabric open.
Place a second background rectangle on the opposite end of the colored rectangle.
Draw another diagonal line, sew on the line, trim the excess, and press the background fabric open.
You should now have a pointed arrowhead unit.
Repeat these steps with the remaining three colored rectangles.
Step 3: Attach the First Arrowhead
Decide which direction you want the arrows to point. The arrowheads can be placed in different orientations, but it is important to use the same arrangement for every block.
Place the first arrowhead unit along one side of the center four-patch, right sides together.
Begin sewing at one end, but do not sew the entire seam. Stop at least ¼ inch before reaching the opposite end. Leaving a slightly larger opening can make the final step easier.
Press the arrowhead unit away from the center. You will have a loose flap where the seam was left unfinished.
Step 4: Add the Remaining Arrowheads
Place the second arrowhead unit along the next side of the four-patch.
Sew the entire seam and press the unit open.
Continue working around the center, adding the third and fourth arrowhead units in the same way.
After the fourth unit is attached, you will return to the loose flap created when sewing the first arrowhead.
Step 5: Finish the Final Seam
Fold the loose flap over the edge of the final arrowhead unit.
Turn the block over and finish sewing the section of the seam that was left open at the beginning.
Press the block open and square it to approximately 8½ inches.
Your Every Which Way Quilt Block is complete!
This block is different, colorful, and a lot of fun to arrange. Try making several blocks and rotating them to see how many different designs you can create.
Happy sewing!
