Heart Block- step by step tutorial

Download the Pattern Here

Quilting is a beautiful, creative, and soothing activity that not only provides a satisfying pastime but also results in a functional piece of art you can use or gift.

In this tutorial, I'll guide you through creating a lovely heart quilt block, perfect for decorating a cushion or making a quilt.

But before we get started, let's understand some terms we'll be using throughout the process:

• HST stands for Half Square Triangle, which is a basic unit in quilting. It consists of two triangles filling up a square.

• Seam Allowance, in our case, is a 1/4”. This is the distance between the sewing line and the edge of the fabric.

• The dash lines on the diagram represent the sew line, and the solid line signifies the pencil line or the cut line.

Make 8 at a time HSTs

The first step in creating your heart quilt block is to make the Half Square Triangles (HSTs).

Use the 10" background and pink squares for this.

On the wrong side of the lighter fabric, draw two lines from corner to corner using a pencil and ruler. This will form an 'X' on the fabric.

Next, place the squares of fabric right sides together, with the lighter square on top. Align the edges and use pins to keep them in place.

Sew a straight line 1/4inch away from the pencil lines on both sides, resulting in a square with an 'X' sewn onto it.

Now, cut along the central pencil lines to make four triangles. Cut these triangles in half to make eight HST units. Open these units, and press the seam depending on your preference. I usually press mine to the darker side.

Square up the HST

Now you have 8 half square triangles it is time to square them up to the right size.

It's time to trim the units. You'll need a standard square quilting ruler with a 45-degree line. Check your pattern and make sure the ruler is the size of the block required or bigger.

Place the unit on the cutting mat, right side up. Align the ruler's 45-degree line with the diagonal seam line on the fabric. Cut up the side and along the top to create two neat sides. Then, turn the unit 180 degrees and trim the other two sides. Double-check the alignment with your HST block's desired measurement before cutting.

And there you have it - a Half Square Triangle, a square with a diagonal seam line running from corner to corner.

Block Construction

Once you have your HSTs ready, it's time to assemble the block.

Use the 8 HST units, the 2 background 4.5" squares, and the 6 coloured 4.5" squares.

Lay the block out as shown in the pattern.

Start by sewing the units together in rows.

After you've done that, sew the rows together to complete the block.

Once all your pieces are sewn together, press your block.

Congratulations! You've just made a heart block.

You can add borders to this block and make a cushion, or create several blocks to construct a heartwarming quilt. I’d love to see what you make, so don't forget to tag me @spinningwheelquilts.

Remember, the joy of quilting isn't just in the finished product, but also in the process itself. So take your time, enjoy each step, and create something beautiful!

your friendly guide

Rebecca

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