How to Make a Simple Strips Quilt Block (Beginner-Friendly Tutorial)
If you're new to quilting or just looking for a fast and fun project, the Simple Strips quilt block is a perfect place to start. With minimal cutting, no tricky points, and lots of room for creativity, this block is ideal for scrap busting, practicing straight seams, and whipping up a quilt in no time. In this blog post, I’ll show you how to make a Simple Strips block step by step—plus share some layout ideas to get you inspired!
🧵 What Is a Simple Strips Quilt Block?
A Simple Strips block is exactly what it sounds like—a block made by sewing several fabric strips together. It’s usually rectangular or square and can be made with strips of equal or varying widths. Depending on how you lay out the blocks, you can create a wide range of patterns: stacked, offset, chevron, and more.
It’s beginner-friendly, quick to make, and totally customizable.
✂️ What You’ll Need
A variety of fabric strips (scraps, jelly roll strips, or yardage)
Rotary cutter and mat
Quilting ruler
Sewing machine
Thread
Iron and pressing surface
📏 Cutting Instructions (for a 12.5" Square Block)
You’ll need strips that are all 12.5" long and vary in width. Here's a simple layout that creates a fun, scrappy look:
(1) strip 1.5" x 12.5"
(1) strip 2" x 12.5"
(2) strips 2.5" x 12.5"
(1) strip 3" x 12.5"
(1) strip 3.5" x 12.5"
Feel free to adjust the number of strips or the widths to suit your fabric and style.
💡 Tip: Using pre-cut jelly roll strips (2.5" wide) makes this block even faster!
🪡 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Arrange Your Strips
Lay out your strips in the order you want them to appear in the finished block. Consider mixing solids, prints, and different color values for visual interest.
2. Sew the Strips Together
With right sides together, sew the first two strips along the long edge using a ¼" seam allowance. Press the seam to one side or open. Continue adding one strip at a time and pressing as you go.
🧠 Pro Tip: Use pins or clips to keep edges aligned as you sew.
3. Square Up the Block
Once all the strips are sewn together, trim the block to 12.5" x 12.5". Make sure your edges are straight and corners are square.
And that’s it—your Simple Strips quilt block is done!
🎨 Design Possibilities
One of the best things about this block is its flexibility. Here are a few layout ideas:
Straight Stripes: All blocks oriented the same way for a modern look.
Alternating Directions: Rotate every other block to create a woven effect.
Offset Rows: Stagger blocks like bricks for a casual, patchwork style.
Monochrome or Gradient: Use shades of one color to create ombre movement.
📚 Why Beginners Love It
No tricky angles or points
Quick to piece and great for chain sewing
Perfect for using up scrap fabric
Great practice for consistent seam allowances and pressing
🧶 What’s Next?
Make a few blocks and sew them into a baby quilt, table runner, or throw. This block also works beautifully as a stash-buster project—each strip can be a different fabric for a fun, scrappy finish.
Have you made a Simple Strips block before? Tell me your favorite color combos or show off your creation in the comments!
Happy stitching,
Tiffany @ Straight Stitching 🧵💛
