How to Make an Economy Quilt Block
Learn how to sew a twelve-inch Economy Quilt block with our free quilt block pattern.
Also known as the Square-in-a-Square block, the Economy block is a staple in both traditional and modern quilting.
The origins of the Economy quilt block are somewhat elusive, but it is believed to have emerged in the 19th century. Its simplicity and efficiency made it popular among quilters who needed to make the most of their fabric scraps during times of scarcity. The name “Economy” reflects this practicality, as the block allows for efficient use of small pieces of fabric.
Note:ย This post is part of a free traditional quilt block pattern series. Please visit our Quilt Block archive to view other patterns we’ve created for you!
Structure and Design
The Economy quilt block consists of a central square surrounded by a series of larger squares set on point, creating a diamond-like effect. This design can be broken down into three primary components:
- Center Square: The focal point of the block, often showcasing a special fabric or fussy-cut motif.
- First Border: Four triangles are sewn around the center square, forming the first layer of the diamond shape.
- Second Border: Another set of four triangles, larger than the first, completing the block.
This straightforward construction allows for endless variations. By changing the size of the center square or the borders, quilters can create blocks of different dimensions, adapting the pattern to suit their needs.
Scrappy Style: This block is perfect for using up fabric scraps. Each section can be made from different fabrics, creating a charming, eclectic block.
Fussy Cutting: The central square is an ideal canvas for fussy cutting, where a specific part of the fabric design is cut and centered to highlight a particular motif.
Construction Tips
Here are some tips to ensure precise and neat results:
- Accurate Cutting: Precision is key in quilting. Ensure all pieces are cut accurately to avoid distortion in the final block.
- Seam Allowance: Maintain a consistent ยผ-inch seam allowance. This consistency will help the block pieces fit together perfectly.
- Pressing: Press seams carefully. Whether you press them open or to one side, make sure they are flat and crisp to avoid bulk.
- Mark the Center: Make sure you take a moment and mark the center of the triangle before you sew it to the center square.
What to Make with Economy Blocks
If you’re looking for project ideas for all the blocks in our Quilt Block Pattern series, check out our article on “What to make with leftover quilt blocks.“
Economy Quilt Block Pattern; 12 inch Block
Equipment
supplies
- 1 piece Fabric 6 1/2" x 6 1/2" For Center
- 2 pieces Fabric 5 1/2" x 5 1/2" For 1st Border
- 2 pieces Fabric 7 1/4" x 7 1/4" For Second Border
Instructions
- Cut the two 5 1/2โ x 5 1/2โ and 7 1/4โ x 7 1/4โ squares in half along the diagonal.
- You should end up with 4 triangles of each fabric.
- Center the long edge of two of the cut 5 1/2โ squares (that are now triangles) with the 6 1/2โ x 6 1/2โ piece, right sides facing. On opposite sides of the square. The triangle tips will overhang the edges of the square.
- Remember to double-check that the triangle is centered on the side of the center square.
- Sew in place with a 1/4โ seam allowance.
- Flip the fabric up and press the seams towards the outside triangles.
- Repeat with the remaining two triangles.
- Find the center of this unit and square it to 9โ x 9โ.
- Repeat the steps above using the triangles cut from the 7 1/4โ squares.
- Again, remember to line up the center of the triangle with the center of the center squares.
- Square and trim final block to 12 1/2โ x 12 1/2โ
Finished Quilt Examples
Here is a quick mockup I did if you created this block with my Tulip Cottage Fabrics. I did a very ROUGH calculation, if you had a Fat Quarter pack of fabric. You could get:
- 6 Centers from One Fat Quarter
- 4 Border #1 from One Fat Quarter
- 2 and a Half Border #2 from One Fat Quarter
So to make a 20 block quilt (48″x60″) you would need (assuming four blocks across by five blocks down):
- 4 Fat Quarters for the Block Centers
- 5 Fat Quarters for Border #1
- 8 Fat Quarters for Border #2 if you buy your fat quarters in matching sets of 2, otherwise you need 10 Fat Quarters.
You can find a selection of Tulip Cottage precuts in our shop.
As I said, it’s just a rough idea to give you an idea of what is possible with these fun Economy Blocks!
This mini quilt, made with Wonderland fabrics, features 8″ finished Economy Blocks!
Additional Block Sizes
The quilt block in today’s post is 12″ and is created using traditional quilt piecing.
Christopher of the Tattooed Quilter also has an FPP Economy Block tutorial on his site. His tutorial is a Foundation Paper-Pieced block. His block pattern comes in 3″, 4″, and 6″ sizes. If you’re not familiar with Foundation Paper Piecing (called FPP), you can check out our “FPP tips for beginners” on the blog HERE.
You can also find a tutorial for a 6″ finished Economy Quilt block on the Diary of a Quilter Site.
Hopefully, you will enjoy this free tutorial, and this article will give you a little idea of what is possible with these versatile quilt blocks!
