Twist Quilt Block Pattern

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How to Sew a Twist Quilt Block

The Twist quilt block is a striking design built from four half-square triangle units arranged to create a dynamic twisting effect. With some patience and attention to detail, it's a fun and rewarding project for quilters of all skill levels!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cut your fabric. Cut four squares of fabric all the same size. A good starting size is 5" × 5".
2. Mark the diagonal lines. Using a fabric pen or pencil, mark a diagonal line from one corner to the opposite corner on each of the four squares.
3. Sew on either side of the line. Place two squares right sides together and sew a straight line ¼" away from each side of the diagonal line. Repeat with the other two squares.
4. Cut along the diagonal line. Cut along the marked line to create four triangles (two of each fabric).
5. Press the seams. Open the triangles and press the seams with an iron so the fabric lies flat with crisp lines.
6. Sew the HST units. Take two contrasting triangles, place them right sides together with seams aligned, and sew along the long edge to create a half-square triangle unit. Repeat with the remaining two triangles.
7. Trim the HST units. Using a ruler and rotary cutter, trim both HST units to the same size as your original squares so all pieces fit together properly.
8. Assemble the block. Arrange the four trimmed HST units in a square, positioning the fabrics to create the twist effect. Sew the pieces together along the edges.
9. Press the block. Press with an iron to set the seams and flatten the block.

Congratulations — your Twist quilt block is complete! Repeat these steps to make more blocks and assemble them into a quilt top.

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.