By Cher
Create a Steps to the Courthouse Quilt Block: A Simple How-To Guide
The Steps to the Courthouse quilt block is one of the simplest blocks to make. Using the “stitch and flip” method, this block comes together quickly and easily, complementing the Woven Star quilt block beautifully. The finished block size in 10-1/2 inches square.
This block is a variation of the Log Cabin quilt block made by early settlers. It uses a consistent background fabric on the sides of the center piece, creating a step-like appearance with the main fabrics!
I chose to use the background fabrics as a border in the last round and have fewer “steps” of the main fabric. Traditionally, the main fabrics are also used in the last round so I’ll consider my blocks a modified version!
So, gather your fabrics and tools, get ready, and let’s get started!
Cutting the Fabrics
For this block, I wanted to make it the same size as the Woven Star block so that I can use them both in a special project later on down the road. The fabrics, including the background fabric, will be cut into 2-1/2 inch strips. The block is worked from the center out and each “round” of fabric is cut to a different length. This is also called the “stitch and flip” method!
The Center
For the center of the block, cut one piece of the main fabric at 2-1/2 inches square and two pieces of the background fabric at 2-1/2 inches square. Sew a background square to each side of the main fabric square using a 1/4 inch seam.
Pro Tips:
- I use a 1/4 inch quilting foot (<– affiliate link!) for the sewing machine and it comes in really handy when piecing quilts!
- It’s also easier if the seams are pressed as you go along, and press the lighter fabrics toward the darker fabrics!
The Next Round
Cut two strips of the main fabric and two strips of the background fabric at 6-1/2 inches long. Sew one of the main fabric strips to the top of the center strip, then sew the other piece on the bottom using 1/4 inch seams. Press the seams.
Next, sew a background fabric strip on each side, each with a 1/4 inch seam, and press the seams.
The Final Round
Now, cut two strips of the main fabric (I used two strips of the background fabric instead) at 10-1/2 inches long. Sew these strips to the block at the top and the bottom – don’t forget to press the seams!
Tidying Up
If necessary, trim the block to 10-1/2 inches square and give it a final pressing.
Isn’t that easy? As a side note, if more fabrics are desired, cut the strips a little narrower and keep adding strips until the block is your desired size.
Have questions about the Steps to the Courthouse quilt block? Leave a comment below!