Checkerboard Quilt Block

Checkerboard Quilt Block

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The Checkerboard Quilt Block is a good example of a block that is made with the Four Triangle Construction method.  Rather than sew the block row by row, this block is made by first constructing four triangles, then joining the two triangles along each side of the diagonal, the sewing the two final units along the diagonal. A similar block is the Right and Left Quilt Block, with the primary difference being that the Checkerboard Quilt Block has a 4-patch in the center instead of a single square.

The Whirlwind Quilt Block is another block that uses this type of construction method.

Grouping Examples

illustration of a Grouping of straight set Checkerboard quilt blocks
Grouping of straight set Checkerboard quilt blocks
Illustration of a Grouping of straight set Checkerboard quilt blocks with every other block rotated.
Grouping of Checkerboard quilt blocks with every other block rotated 45 degrees

Block Construction

Skill Level: Intermediate

When drafting the block, it's important to note that it's actually a 4-patch.  It's entirely possible to construct the block similar to a Big Dipper Quilt Block, using Quarter Square Triangles. However, using drafting the block along the diagonal and using the four triangle construction method will save you a few seams.

Exploded version of The Checkerboard Quilt Block

Click the image above to download the free cutting charts for the Attic Window Quilt Block.

Coloring Sheets

Click to download coloring sheets.