The nine-patch is one of the first blocks most quilters learn, and for good reason. It's simple, quick and teaches you the skills you'll use in almost every quilt: accurate cutting, a consistent 1/4" seam and matching seams.
In this tutorial, I'll show you how to make a traditional nine-patch quilt block in three easy steps, plus a few tips to make your corners line up perfectly.
What Is a Nine Patch Block?
A nine-patch block is made of nine squares, or "patches," sewn together in three rows of three. Traditionally all nine squares are the same size, and the colors alternate between two fabrics to make a checkerboard look. You can use the block on its own or combine it with other blocks.
What You'll Need
- Nine 5" squares (five of one fabric and four of another for a classic look)
- Rotary cutter, mat and ruler
- Sewing machine and iron
This makes one block that finishes at 13 1/2" square (14" unfinished).
How to Make a Nine Patch Quilt Block
Step 1: Cut your fabric
Cut nine squares, all the same size. For this example, we're using 5" squares. Lay them out in three rows of three, alternating your fabrics.
Step 2: Sew the squares into rows
Sew the three squares in each row together with a 1/4" seam to make three long rectangles. Press the seams of the top and bottom rows toward the dark fabric, and the middle row the opposite way.
Step 3: Sew the rows together
Sew the rows together, nesting the seams so the corners line up crisply. Think of the tic-tac-toe lines in the illustration below.
Here's what your finished nine-patch quilt block will look like:
Tips for Perfect Nine Patch Blocks
- Use a consistent 1/4" seam. Small errors add up across three seams.
- Nest your seams. Pressing rows in opposite directions lets the seams lock together.
- Pin at intersections. A pin at each seam keeps the corners from shifting.
- Try strip piecing. For lots of blocks, sew long strips together, then cut them into segments. It's much faster than sewing single squares.
Nine Patch Quilt FAQs
How Much Fabric Do I Need for a 9 Patch Quilt?
- This will depend heavily on the quilt pattern that you choose to use. Most quilt patterns will give you fabric requirements for different-sized quilts.
How Much Fabric Do I Need for a Queen Size 9 Patch Quilt?
- Again, the specific amount will depend on the quilt pattern you choose but, for most nine-patch quilts, you will need around 8 yards of fabric for the quilt top and another 8 yards for the backing.
How Do You Make a Disappearing 9 Patch?
- To create a disappearing 9 patch quilt, you will follow the steps above to make a traditional 9 patch block then cut that block into quarters. You then rotate the blocks to create a unique design.
Final Thoughts
Once you can make a nine-patch block, a whole world of quilts opens up. Repeat it across a quilt, alternate it with plain squares, or cut it up for a disappearing nine-patch.
Ready to put your new block to work? Browse our 16 nine patch quilt patterns for plenty of ideas.
