Stitch a String Quilt Block for a Fun, Scrappy Project

Rule number one: don’t throw out those fabric scraps, even the thinnest of strips. After all, you can use ’em to make a totally new project — like a string quilt! These block are simple to quilt and make use of every bit of your fabric stash. What’s not to love?

String Quilt Block

Level: Easy

What You Need

  • Fabric (for the block’s foundation/backing)
  • Various fabrics cut into 1¼” – 2½” strips
  • Rotary cutter
  • Thread
  • Cutting mat
  • Ruler
  • Pins or appliqué glue
  • Thin batting, flannel or corduroy (optional)
  • Good to Know: Your fabric can vary in width, but keep in mind: strips smaller than 1¼” won’t show up well in your final block, and strips larger than 2½” tend to take up too much space.

    Instructions

    1. Cut Your Squares

    Cut the squares needed for your block’s base. The squares can be any size you want — just add ½” to whatever you want your finished blocks to be. For example, if you want 8″ finished blocks you should cut a 8½” fabric square.

    Pro Tip: To keep the square from being too bulky, use a very thin piece of batting, or even a piece of flannel or corduroy instead.

    2. Place the First Strip

    Begin by placing one strip of fabric diagonally across the foundation piece, right side up. Secure the strip with a few pins or dots of appliqué glue to keep it from sliding.

    3. Sew the Strips

    Place another fabric strip on top of the center strip, right sides together. Sew through all layers using a ¼” seam allowance. Press to set the seam, then press the seam open.

    4. Continue Sewing

    Add more strips using this method until one side of your foundation fabric is completely covered.

    Then fill in the second half of the square in the same manner.

    5. Trim

    When your square is completely covered with strips, flip it over. Use a ruler and rotary cutter to trim the strip pieces so they’re even with the edges of the square.

    You have your first string block! Keep making more to make a gorgeous scrappy design.

    Share tips, start a discussion or ask one of our experts or other students a question.

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    11 Responses to “Stitch a String Quilt Block for a Fun, Scrappy Project”

    1. Carolynclark

      I am interesting for crafting

    2. Nancy Morris

      How do you sew the blocks together to make a throw or blanket

    3. Jill Burrill

      How can I get a copy of this pattern: “String Quilt Block for a Fun, Scrappy Project”? Thank you.

    4. Monica Albert

      Very good.

    5. Meme

      Need your Help....

    6. Kathleen

      I am a new quilter and wondered what to do with my pieces of left over fabric. Can't wait to get started.thank you

    7. Deborah Butler

      Can’t wait to try

    8. Luanne Eisler

      Good afternoon, I just finished a scrappy string quilt as you described with the piano key border. It is SO pretty! Wasn't sure how it would turn out. Now, my question is--what do you recommend as the quilting (hand quilting) design? I was thinking "stitch in the ditch" on the blocks and keys with an X-variant (to mimic the blocks) in the sashing. A seasoned machine quilter friend recommended a swirly design on the sashing and borders and an overall design for the blocks. I'd appreciate your input. Many thanks, Lu Eisler

    9. Myrna Aslett

      I like this idea

    10. Susan Kolbauer

      Would love this pattern thanks....looks amazing!