IT’S TIME TO ADD TO OUR STASH OF BUILDERS WITH ANOTHER FOUNDATIONAL QUILT BLOCK – THE HOURGLASS!
If you’ve ever wanted to dive into the world of quilting but didn’t know where to start, let me introduce you to a project that’s as timeless as it is exquisite – the hourglass quilt block. This easy quilt block is not just a joy to look at, it’s a delightful project that works perfectly with layer cakes and charm packs and serves as one of the foundational building blocks of quilting.
The hourglass quilt block dates back to the 19th century, so to say that it is tried and true would certainly be an understatement.
Whether you’re a beginner quilting enthusiast like me, or an experienced quilter looking for a quick project, the hourglass block offers the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. Its versatile design opens up a myriad of possibilities for creativity, making it ideal for personal projects or gifts. Let’s explore how the hourglass quilt block can transform your quilting journey.
Supplies for the Hourglass Quilt Block
The Hourglass quilt block is a perfect fit for precuts like Layer Cakes and Charm Packs. Hourglass blocks can be very specifically patterned, very scrappy or even somewhere in between. In my video below, I’ve chosen to use the Chelsea Garden Layer Cake by Moda. The colours are stunning and it makes me feel like Spring is coming! For even more gorgeous fabric selections, be sure to visit the Fat Quarter Shop!
Here is a list of basic quilting supplies that you’ll need for this project:
- Rotary cutter and mat
- Quilting Ruler
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Iron and ironing board or pressing mat
- Pins or clips
- Fabric marker
- Spray starch
Remember to keep your supplies handy in one place using a Portable Sewing Room!
You won’t believe how simple it is to put together an Hourglass quilt block – you can watch my YouTube tutorial here:
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For the full written instructions, continue reading below.
Hourglass Quilt Block: Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by deciding what size block you would like to make. If you are starting with a 10″ layer cake, your finished blocks will be 8 ½”. A 5″ charm pack will give you 3 ½” blocks when finished.
Want to Skip the Quilt Math? I’ve Got You Covered!
Download my free Hourglass Quilt Block Size Guide – featuring eight block sizes with cutting measurements done for you – from the Handmade Home Library!
Choose two squares and lay them right sides together. I like to use a very light or white fabric with a fun pattern so that the hourglass shape is very distinctive when the blocks are complete.
Start by layering two fabric squares right sides together. Choose contrasting fabrics to make your hourglass quilt block pop.
Draw a diagonal line across the lighter-coloured fabric. Stitch a ¼” seam on each side of the line.
Using a fabric marker or pencil, draw a diagonal line from corner to corner on the wrong side of the top fabric square. This will be your guide for stitching.
Once your stitching is complete, cut along the line diagonally.
After stitching on either side of the line, cut your square in half diagonally to form two half-square triangles — the foundation of the hourglass quilt block.
This will give you two large HSTs, or Half Square Triangles. Press your seams and then press the squares open toward the darker fabric.
Multiple half-square triangle units made from floral and cream fabrics laid out on a cutting mat, arranged in preparation for sewing hourglass quilt blocks.
Next, layer your two HSTs together by placing the opposite fabrics on top of each other. The pressed seam will allow you to nest the two pieces perfectly. You should have one light triangle right sides together with the dark, and vice versa.
Place two half-square triangles right sides together with opposite fabrics touching. Align the seams and draw a diagonal line for your next stitch line—this creates the signature shape of the hourglass quilt block.
Again, draw a diagonal line that crosses the seam, not in the same direction. Stitch a ¼” seam on each side of the line and cut along the line.
Sew ¼” on either side of the marked line. This double-seam method gives you two perfectly matched hourglass quilt block units from each pair.
Press your seams and press open your new hourglass block!
This is most definitely a block that you will come back to time and again. It’s a great filler and it’s even better when you’ve got a bunch of them together!
Press your finished blocks open and trim to size. You’ve now completed your hourglass quilt block—simple, classic, and full of charm!
Be sure to visit my Etsy shop and check out my Hourglass Quilt Pattern!
For more of my Essential Building Blocks of Quilting tutorials, check out these posts:
- How to Make a Four-Patch Quilt Block
- How to Make Half Square Triangles
- How to Make a Nine Patch Quilt Block
- How to Make a Churn Dash Quilt Block
Want to remember this? Save “How to Make an Hourglass Quilt Block: Essential Building Blocks of Quilting” to your favourite Pinterest boards!
