The around the block quilt block features a 9 patch center framed by a simple border.

This block is beginner friendly, is quick to make, and is a great way to experiment with different color combos.

AROUND THE BLOCK QUILT BLOCK TUTORIAL

I really love classic quilt blocks. I love how they use basic techniques and units, to create unique blocks.

Some of my favorite classic blocks include Jacob's ladder, shoo fly, and churn dash.

This is my 40th quilt block tutorial!

Go check out all my other quilt blocks (click on quilting in the header, then the quilt blocks section in the dropdown).

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SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR QUILTING

This quilt block doesn't need any specialty rulers or supplies.

Below are my staple quilting supplies that I use in every project.

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

FABRIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A 5" AROUND THE BLOCK QUILT BLOCK

Today's tutorial will teach you how to make a 5 inch block.

Want instructions you can print off ? I've got you!

Grab the printable PDF pattern, which includes:

3 different size options
full written instructions with diagrams
quilt layout ideas

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Get the Printable PDF Pattern

FABRIC CUT LIST FOR 5 INCH BLOCK

You will need three colors of fabric for this block. I have included my fabric choices in parenthesis.

I will refer to the pieces by color in the tutorial for the sake of clarity.

But feel free to use whatever fabric you would like.

It might be fun to make a scrappy version with all different colors.

4) 1 1/2" squares (floral)
9) 1 1/2" squares (orange)
4) 1 1/2" X 3 1/2" rectangles (white)

fabric for the around the block quilt block

HOW TO MAKE AN AROUND THE BLOCK QUILT BLOCK

Working on the block in two sections makes it a really easy block.

Begin with the middle nine-patch section, then add the surrounding pieces.

MAKING THE CENTER 9-PATCH BLOCK

Let's get started by making the center part of the block. It is a simple nine patch.

All seams are 1/4 inch.

orange and floral fabric squares arranged in an 3 by 3 grid

Select the four floral squares and five of the orange pieces.

Arrange the pieces in a 3 X 3 grid with the orange pieces in each corner and in the center.

The floral squares will go on all four sides.

Next, sew the pieces of each row together.

Press the seams of the top and bottom rows toward the outside.

Press the seams of the middle row toward the middle.

Sew each row to the next, nesting the seams as you go.

Press the seams to one side.

ADDING THE OUTER EDGES

Now it's time to add the surrounding edges to our block.

arranging the around the block quilt block

Arrange the block by placing the four remaining squares in each corner of the block.

Place the rectangle pieces on each side.

Although the pieces are not equal in size, we can sew it together with the same 9 patch method.