If you're a beginner quilter, the Nine Patch quilt block is a perfect place to start. It’s simple, versatile, and a great way to build your confidence while using up fabric scraps. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your own Nine Patch block—including materials, cutting instructions, and step-by-step sewing tips.

✂️ What is a Nine Patch Block?

A Nine Patch quilt block is made by sewing together nine equal-sized squares in a 3x3 grid. It’s a staple in traditional quilting and can be dressed up with color placement, scrappy layouts, or sashing for more complex designs.

🧵 Materials You’ll Need

Fabric in at least two contrasting colors or prints
Rotary cutter and mat
Quilting ruler
Iron and ironing board
Sewing machine
Coordinating thread

📏 Cutting Instructions

For a finished 9" block (each square finishes at 3"), cut the following:

5 squares of Fabric A – 3.5" x 3.5"
4 squares of Fabric B – 3.5" x 3.5"

✨ Tip: Always cut your pieces ½" larger than your finished square size to account for seam allowances (¼" on each side).

🪡 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Lay Out Your Block

Arrange your 9 squares into a 3x3 grid. Alternate the fabrics in a checkerboard pattern if you want a traditional look:
Row 1: A, B, A
Row 2: B, A, B
Row 3: A, B, A

You can go scrappy or organized—it’s up to you!

2. Sew the Rows

Take the squares from the first row and sew them together using a ¼" seam. Press the seams flat—either open or to the side (pressing alternating rows in opposite directions will help your seams nest better later).

Repeat for rows 2 and 3.

3. Join the Rows

Once all rows are sewn and pressed, line them up and sew Row 1 to Row 2, and then Row 3 to Row 2, using a ¼" seam allowance. Match the seams at each intersection for crisp points.

Press again and admire your block!

💡 Tips for Success

Chain piece your squares to save time and thread.
Use starch or a fabric stabilizer if your fabric is stretchy or thin.
Don’t worry if your seams aren’t perfect—it’s all part of the learning process.

🧶 What’s Next?

Once you’ve mastered the Nine Patch, try combining several blocks into a mini quilt or table runner. You can also explore variations like the Disappearing Nine Patch for a more modern twist.

🔗 Want More Beginner Quilt Blocks?

Download my free Half-Square Triangle Cheat Sheet and start mixing in new block styles with your Nine Patch foundation. You’ll be building your own sampler quilt in no time!

Let me know in the comments: have you tried a Nine Patch block before, or is this your first one? I'd love to hear how it went! 💬

Happy stitching,
Tiffany @ Straight Stitching 🧵💛