The calico puzzle quilt block is a quick and simple block.

Made with half square triangles and squares, it comes together so easily. 

This classic block is a split pinwheel. The corners of the block create a pinwheel formation, they are just separated by the squares. 

It's pretty and whimsical and creates a beautiful secondary pattern when several are placed together. 

 

CALICO PUZZLE QUILT BLOCK (EASY TUTORIAL!)

I love quilt blocks that utilize half square triangles because they are so easy to make.

The friendship star block, the Indiana Puzzle, and the Maple Leaf are a few other blocks that use HST's.

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SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR QUILTING

My favorite quilting tools are listed below. For this project, I recommend using a half square triangle ruler to help square up the HST's. 

• fabric
• thread
• rotary cutter / cutting mat / straight edge
• sewing machine (This is my new machine that I absolutely love!)
• sewing scissors
• pencil
• iron and wool ironing mat 
• HST Ruler
  

For all my best quilting supply recommendations, check out my Amazon storefront.

FABRIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A 6" CALICO PUZZLE BLOCK

Below is the fabric cut list for a six inch block. 

If you'd like to make another size, you are in luck! Grab the printable pattern, which includes instructions for 5 block sizes! 
 

Printable Pattern with 5 sizes!

CUTTING MEASUREMENTS FOR A 6 INCH BLOCK

• 1 light square 4 1/8 inches
• 1 dark square 4 1/8 inches
• 1 dark square 2 1/2 inches
• 4 medium squares 2 1/2 inches

 

HOW TO MAKE THE CALICO PUZZLE BLOCK

Let's get started with this beginner friendly block.

MAKING THE HALF SQUARE TRIANGLES (USING THE 4 AT A TIME METHOD)

Make four half square triangles using the two large squares of fabric. 

Note: HST = half square triangle.

Step 1: Place the two large squares of fabric on top of each other with right sides together.

Step 2: Sew around all four edges of the square with a 1/4 inch seam allowance.

Step 3: Cut the square in half diagonally in both directions.

Step 4: Square up each HST to 2 1/2 inches.

 

Press open the HST's with the seam towards the dark fabric and trim the tails.

Note: I used a directional fabric. I have long ago decided that I am not going to be worry if directional fabrics line up the same way. However, if this bothers you stick with a non-directional fabric.

ASSEMBLING THE CALICO PUZZLE BLOCK

 

Arrange the block into a nine patch formation. 

I like to begin with the four corners. These are the half square triangles pieces. I like to arrange them in a pinwheel formation  and them spread them out to the corners.

The center of the block is the dark fabric.

The four sides of the block is the medium fabric. 

Next, sew the block together as you would any other nine patch.

 

Remember right sides together as you stitch.

Sew the blocks in each row together. 

Press the towards the medium fabric in each row.

 

Then sew each row together, nesting seams as you sew. 

Press the seams towards the center row.

That’s it! A charming calico puzzle block to add to your quilt project.

Don’t forget to check out the video tutorial and printable pattern for more sizes.

Want to watch the video?  ↓↓Click the link ↓↓

→CALICO PUZZLE QUILT BLOCK VIDEO←

MORE QUILT BLOCK TUTORIALS

• Diagonal Stripe Quilt Block
• Electric Fan Quilt Block
• Dutchman's Puzzle Quilt Block
• Around the Block Quilt Block
• Counterchange Cross Quilt Block
• Classic Basket Block
• Amish Star Quilt Block

Don't forget to pin it!!