Quilting Ideas for Beginners: Easy Cross Weave Quilt Block Tutorial

Welcome to Straight Stitching, where I share my passion for quilting! Today, I’m excited to bring you a simple yet stunning quilt block tutorial—the Cross Weave Block. This block is perfect for beginners and an excellent way to use your fabric scraps or jelly roll strips. Let’s dive in!

What is the Cross Weave Quilt Block?

The Cross Weave Block is essentially a combination of four mini log cabin blocks. When pieced together, they create a beautiful cross-weave effect that adds dimension and texture to your quilt.

Materials Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create one Cross Weave Block:

• Background Pieces: Four white fabric squares measuring 4 1/2 inches each.

• Four Colors for the Cross Weave Effect:

  • (1) piece measuring 6 1/2 inches by 2 1/2 inches per color.

  • (1) piece measuring 4 1/2 inches by 2 1/2 inches per color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Layout Your Pieces

Start by laying out your pieces to decide the color placement. This step ensures the colors are arranged to achieve the desired cross-weave pattern.

2. Sew the Short Pieces

Take the 4 1/2-inch by 2 1/2-inch colored strips and sew one to the side of each background square using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Use chain piecing to speed up the process, which allows you to sew multiple pieces without cutting the thread between blocks.

3. Press the Seams

Press the seams open for a flat finish. Start with a finger press, then use a dry iron to avoid distorting the fabric shape.

4. Attach the Longer Pieces

Sew the 6 1/2-inch by 2 1/2-inch strips to the adjacent sides of your blocks. Again, use a 1/4-inch seam allowance and chain piecing for efficiency. Once done, press the seams open.

5. Assemble the Mini Log Cabin Blocks

After attaching the short and long pieces to each background square, you will have four mini log cabin blocks. Press the seams to ensure they lie flat.

6. Arrange and Sew the Cross Weave Block

Lay out the mini log cabin blocks to form the cross-weave pattern. Sew the blocks in two pairs (top and bottom rows). Then, sew the two rows together. Your completed block should measure 12 inches squared.

Tips for Success

• Use Scraps or Jelly Roll Strips: This block is ideal for using up leftover fabric. Fat quarters or yardage also work well.

• Precision Matters: Align edges carefully to maintain a neat appearance.

• Pressing Techniques: Press seams on both sides to achieve a flat and polished look.

Why You'll Love the Cross Weave Block

The Cross Weave Block is versatile, beginner-friendly, and a fantastic way to experiment with colors. Whether you’re making a small throw or a large quilt, this block will add charm and visual interest to your project.

Have fun quilting, and don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media by tagging @StraightStitching. Happy stitching!