How to Make a Classic Nine Patch Quilt Block | Around the Block Week 2

Welcome back to Straight Stitching for Week 2 of the Around the Block quilt series! This week, we're focusing on one of the most iconic and beginner-friendly blocks in quilting: the Nine Patch.

The Nine Patch block is made using nine squares arranged in a 3x3 grid. It’s simple to construct and teaches core piecing skills like consistent seam allowances, chain piecing, and pressing.

What You'll Need:

• 9 squares measuring 4-½" x 4-½"

• A quarter-inch presser foot (optional, but helpful!)

• A hot iron and pins

Step-by-Step Highlights:

1. Layout First: Lay out all 9 squares in your desired pattern.

2. Chain Piece Rows: Sew the squares together in rows using a ¼" seam.

3. Press Seams Open: Use finger pressing, followed by a hot iron, to get smooth, flat rows.

4. Join the Rows: Match up seams carefully, pin in place, and sew the rows together.

5. Final Press: Press all seams open and admire your finished block!

Tip: Pressing seams open helps reduce bulk and gives your block a crisp, clean finish—especially helpful when joining multiple blocks in a sampler quilt.

This Nine Patch finishes at 12-½" square (unfinished) and is a fantastic option to use in quilts with repeating blocks or to combine with other traditional blocks, just like we’re doing in this series!

If you missed Week 1 (the Four Patch with a twist), you can catch up here.

And don’t forget to subscribe to the Straight Stitching YouTube channel so you don’t miss next week’s block: Courthouse Steps.