Courthouse Steps Quilt Block Pattern

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How to Sew a Courthouse Steps Quilt Block

The Courthouse Steps quilt block is a classic variation of the Log Cabin block where fabric strips are added to opposite sides of a center square rather than rotating around it. The result is a bold, symmetrical staircase effect that looks stunning in any color combination!

Materials Needed

• Fabric strips in at least 2 different colors
• Sewing machine and thread
• Rotary cutter and cutting mat
• Quilting ruler
• Iron and ironing board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cut your fabric strips. Cut strips to your desired width and length. A common size is 2½" wide with varying lengths.
2. Sew the first two strips. Place two strips of different colors right sides together. Sew along one long edge with a ¼" seam allowance. Press the seam to one side.
3. Add more strips. Continue adding strips, working clockwise around the unit. Place each new strip right sides together with the previous strip and sew along one long edge with a ¼" seam allowance. Press seams to one side as you go.
4. Trim the block. Once the block reaches your desired size, use your rotary cutter, ruler, and cutting mat to trim the edges even.
5. Repeat. Repeat steps 2–4 to make additional Courthouse Steps blocks, varying color combinations as desired.
6. Assemble the quilt top. Arrange the blocks in your desired layout and sew together with a ¼" seam allowance. Press seams to one side.
7. Quilt and finish. Add batting and backing to make a quilt sandwich. Quilt as desired by machine or hand, then bind the edges to finish.

How to Resize Quilt Blocks

The first step in modifying any quilt block is to decide on your finished block size. You can base this on doubling a pattern, cutting it in half, or working with your available fabric.

Note: When working from a pattern's cutting instructions, remove the seam allowance before scaling. For example, if your pattern calls for 3½″ squares, subtract the seam allowance (½″), double the finished size (3″ → 6″), then add the seam allowance back (½″) — giving you a 6½″ cut piece.

Resizing Square Blocks

Add ½″ to your finished block measurement. For a 4″ finished square, cut a 4½″ square of fabric.

Resizing Rectangular Blocks

Add ½″ to both the length and width. To double a 3″ × 4″ block, cut a 6½″ × 8½″ rectangle.

Resizing Half-Square Triangle Blocks

Add 7/8″ to the desired finished block size. For a 4″ finished HST block, cut 4⅞″ squares.

Resizing Quarter Square Triangle Blocks

Add 1¼″ to the desired finished block size. For a 4″ finished block, cut 5¼″ squares.