How To Make the Louisiana State Quilt Block

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On this significant day, November 9, 2023, we are delighted to present the Louisiana State Quilt Block tutorial in celebration of National Louisiana State Day! Committed to upholding the rich tradition of quilt blocks in every state, we have taken painstaking measures to deconstruct this block, ensuring that quilters of all skill levels can participate and find joy in the process. Through our simplified approach, you now have the opportunity to craft the Louisiana State Quilt Block, turning it into a delightful and rewarding project. Immerse yourself in Louisiana’s captivating hues as you sew together this exceptional quilt block, capturing the authentic essence of the Pelican State in your quilting masterpiece. Get ready to quilt with pride and honor Louisiana’s artistic heritage on this momentous occasion.

, How To Make the Louisiana State Quilt Block

Embark on a quilting adventure as we journey through time, immersing ourselves in a mesmerizing exploration of the intricate tapestry of historical heritage and artistic tradition that has forged the enduring allure of quilting. Within this captivating voyage, we extend a warm invitation to you to accompany us as we delve into the heartwarming narrative of the Hearth and Home quilting project—a remarkable endeavor that brought together quilters from all corners of the United States during the early 1900s.

Today, our expedition transports us to the enchanting state of Louisiana, where history and creativity intersect to reveal the Louisiana State Quilt Block. This exquisite design draws inspiration from the beauty of the Iris, Louisiana’s unique state flower. By expertly blending contrasting hues, including the vibrant shades found in the Iris, we infuse vitality into this captivating quilt block, transforming it into a spectacle of pure grandeur.

Stay engaged for upcoming state block tutorials as we persist in commemorating the quilt block heritage of every state, sharing the diverse beauty and essence of America, one block at a time! Happy quilting!

You can find the cutting instructions and templates for this block below, so let’s dive right in! The pattern incorporates rotary cutting guidelines and templates if you opt to print the pattern.

Go grab the rotary cutting directions for this block below and let’s get started!

Supplies

Rotating Cutting Board (0ptional) – to help turn your pieces without touching them.
Quilt ruler: Ensure you have a quilt ruler on hand, as it will help in drawing precise lines and measurements.
Scissors – I like Kathy Kay Buckley Scissors
Iron – My favorite Iron – Panasonic NI-WL600 Cordless Iron

Just a friendly reminder to visit our free resource library to access the dimensions for these pieces. Once you’ve got the measurements you need, return here to begin constructing your block. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process. Happy quilting!

Step 1 – Four at a Time Flying Geese Method

Flying geese blocks are a fundamental unit in quilting, often used in various quilt patterns. The four-at-a-time flying geese method is an efficient way to create multiple flying geese units with minimal waste. In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through the steps to make four flying geese blocks at once.

Step 1: Marking the Squares

1.1. Take your small squares (B) (for the geese) and mark a diagonal line from one corner to the opposite corner on the wrong side of the fabric. This line will serve as your stitching guide.

Step 2: Assembling the Flying Geese Units

2.1. Place two smaller squares (B) on opposite corners of the large square (C), right sides together, aligning the edges. The smaller squares should overlap in the center along the marked diagonal lines. This is where you’ll sew.

2.2. Sew a quarter-inch seam on each side of the marked diagonal line.

2.3. After sewing, cut along the marked diagonal line to separate the units into two halves.

Step 3: Press and Trim

3.1. Open up the smaller squares to reveal your flying geese units. Press the seams towards the smaller squares, away from the geese.

3.2. Trim the dog-ears (the excess fabric at the corners) from each unit, making sure they are neat and tidy.

Step 4: Adding the Second Set of Background Squares

4.1. Take the remaining two smaller squares (B) and place them on the opposite corners of each half-square unit (the ones you just created), right sides together.

4.2. Sew a quarter-inch seam on each side of the center diagonal line.

4.3. Cut along the center diagonal line to separate the units into four individual flying geese blocks.

Step 5: Press and Finalize

5.1. Open up the smaller squares and press the seams towards the smaller squares, away from the geese.

5.2. Your four-at-a-time flying geese blocks are now complete! Trim any remaining loose threads and adjust their measurements if needed.

This method allows you to efficiently create multiple flying geese units with precision. You can use these blocks to add movement and visual interest to your quilting projects.

Step 2 – Assemble the Block

Great, let’s continue with the assembly of your quilt blocks using the flying geese units. Here’s how to create four blocks where one of the flying geese units points towards a rectangle and then sew and iron towards the rectangle (A):

Step 1: Arranging the Units

1.1. Lay out one flying geese unit with the “goose” pointing toward the rectangle (A).

1.2. Place one rectangle piece (fabric B) next to the flying geese unit with the long side of the rectangle adjacent to the “goose” side of the flying geese.

Step 2: Sew and Iron

2.1. With right sides together, align the edge of the rectangle with the edge of the flying geese unit. Make sure they are well-matched at the top.

2.2. Sew a quarter-inch seam along the edge where the rectangle and the flying geese unit meet. Backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the seam.

2.3. After sewing, press the seam toward the rectangle (A). This will help reduce bulk and create a flat, neat seam.

Step 3: Repeat for the Remaining Units

3.1. Repeat the process for the other three flying geese units and rectangle pieces. Make sure that in each case, the “goose” points toward the rectangle (A).

Step 4: Lay Out the Design

4.1. Begin by arranging your four quarter blocks as show in the picture below.

Step 5: Sewing the Rows

5.1. Start sewing the quarter blocks together row by row. Begin with the top row and sew the blocks together, making sure the seams align correctly. Iron towards the base of the flying goose.

5.2. After sewing the top row, continue with the remaining rows, sewing them together in order.

Step 6: Sewing the Rows Together

6.1. Once all rows are sewn and seams are pressed, it’s time to sew the rows together to complete your quilt top.

6.2. Align the rows, nesting the seams where the flying geese units meet the rectangles. This will ensure that the opposing seams create a snug fit when the two halves are joined.

6.3. Sew the rows together, taking care to match the seams. Pinning or using quilting clips can be helpful to keep everything in place. Press in one direction.

Your Louisiana State Block is Complete!

As we approach the conclusion of our journey, we find ourselves fully immersed in the captivating realm of the Louisiana State Quilt Block. Originating in the early 1900s, particularly within the Hearth and Home quilting project, our contemporary interpretation of this block encapsulates both the rich artistic heritage and profound identity of the Pelican State. Through the meticulous assembly of this exquisite block, we’ve drawn inspiration from Louisiana’s distinctive state symbol, the Iris. This artistic embodiment has empowered us to fashion a masterpiece that genuinely pays homage to the state’s inherent allure. In the course of this creative odyssey, we’ve come to realize that quilting transcends being a mere craft; it’s a medium of self-expression that seamlessly weaves history, tradition, and heartfelt dedication. The Louisiana State Quilt Block stands as a testament to unity and camaraderie, fostering a space where quilters from all walks of life come together to honor the enduring legacy of this beloved art form.

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