A 'Block' is a single design unit comprised of small fabric pieces sewn together
to produce a decorative pattern. Popular sizes for blocks are 6", 8",
9", 10", 12", 14", 15", 18" and 24".
Miniature quilts can have blocks as small as 1". 'Medallion' quilts often
have one very large block and several borders. The same block can be colored
many different ways and often has a different name for each variation.
A pieced block which is divided into four equal sections (or squares) is often
called a 'four-patch' block:
Four of these, put together with strips (sashing) in between, are often called a
'five-patch' block:
A pieced block which is divided into nine equal sections is often called a
'nine-patch' block:
Four of these, put together with sashing in between, are often called a
'seven-patch' block:
Sections of these blocks can be further subdivided and combined to make an
unlimited number of patterns:
A four-patch block that has each of its four sections rotated 90 degrees
clockwise is called a 'puzzle' block. Dutchman's Puzzle, Balkan Puzzle
and Bachelor's Puzzle are three examples:
Some pieced blocks are based on subdivisions of a circle. Eight Point Star
and Kaleidoscope are two examples:
'String-pieced' blocks are sewn from strips ('strings') of fabric (often onto a
foundation of fabric or paper). Log Cabin, Courthouse Steps
and Pineapple are three examples:
Appliquéd blocks are usually either circular in origin or pictorial (based on a
picture):
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