Susannah Quilt Block Tutorial

susannah quilt block tutorial

The Susannah Quilt Block is a nice easy block to not only make but also cut since it only relies on squares. Even the inner piece which might look complicated to a beginner is really simple to put together.

We have two video versions of this lovely block in different sizes.

This is the first version

The quilt block we are making is a variation on the original Susannah quilt block. The original requires you to cut fabric on an angle whereas this variation is so much easier as you only have to cut squares. It is also easier to piece together.

In other words, you get the same result but without all the hassle.

susannah quilt block variation

We had a lot of fun making these and we ended up putting a couple of these blocks together to make a table runner (more on that below if you would like to make it) although it might be classified as a table topper since it doesn’t run very long. To be honest, I’m not sure what the cut off point is when determining whether something is a table runner or a table topper. If you know the answer to this one, let us know in the comments.

sussanah quilt block table runner

But enough talk, let’s get started and show you how to make this block.

This is the second version



Cutting Instructions

These instructions are for an 8″ x 8″ finished block (8½” x 8½” unfinished block). For alternative sizes, scroll to the end of this post.

  • Fabric 1: Cut 1 piece at 4½” x 4½”
  • Fabric 2: Cut 8 pieces at 2½” x 2½”
  • Fabric 3: Cut 8 pieces at 2½” x 2½”

Piecing Instructions

Start by adding two of the squares to each corner of the large center square and sew as per the image below.

susannah quilt block tutorial

Trim the excess fabric from each side leaving a quarter inch seam.

susannah quilt block tutorial

This is how it should look at this point.

susannah quilt block tutorial

Fold back the fabric and press.

susannah quilt block tutorial

Add another two pieces to the other corners of the main square.

susannah quilt block tutorial

Sew along the diagonal as shown in the image below.

It should look like this when sewn.

susannah quilt block tutorial

Trim off the excess fabric on each side leaving a quarter inch seam.

susannah quilt block tutorial

Open out the sides and press.

Now we are ready to sew the squares to the side of the center piece. Arrange these squares as per the image below and sew together.

susannah quilt block tutorial

They should look like this when sewn.

susannah quilt block tutorial

Sew these side pieces to the center piece ensuring that you line up the seam lines.

susannah quilt block tutorial

Now we are ready to add the remaining squares. Arrange them as per the image below.

susannah quilt block tutorial

Sew each row together.

susannah quilt block tutorial

Sew each row to the main piece and your quilt block is now complete.

Table Topper Instructions

As I mentioned previously, we made a table topper using this quilt block. If you would like to make it, we have included basic instructions for you. Just click here to download the pdf.

susannah quilt block tutorial

Alternative Sizes

6″ Finished Block

  • Fabric 1: Cut 1 piece at 3½” x 3½”
  • Fabric 2: Cut 8 pieces at 2″ x 2″
  • Fabric 3: Cut 8 pieces at 2″ x 2″

10″ Finished Block

  • Fabric 1: Cut 1 piece at 5½” x 5½”
  • Fabric 2: Cut 8 pieces at 3″ x 3″
  • Fabric 3: Cut 8 pieces at 3″ x 3″

12″ Finished Block

  • Fabric 1: Cut 1 piece at 6½” x 6½”
  • Fabric 2: Cut 8 pieces at 3½” x 3½”
  • Fabric 3: Cut 8 pieces at 3½” x 3½”