how-to make a classic Courthouse Steps Block
Courthouse Steps Blocks are an absolute joy to make! I’ve pulled together some of my favorite classic layouts to share with you, including this classic-classic one!
Each block finished at a generous 14” and their 2½” wide pieces are jelly roll friendly (or a great way to put binding scraps to work!).
And to make it even easier to follow along, I’ve created a printer-friendly one-page PDF that you can download by signing up below!
Each one pager explains in step-by-step detail the pieces you’ll need and how to build your block, but if you’re looking for complete instructions for a Crib, Throw, Twin, Full/Queen, or King size quilt, you can find the arrangement in the shop.
How to make a Classic Courthouse Steps Quilt Block
Fabric Requirements
Before you begin, you’ll need the following fabric pieces:
Fabric A: 2½" x 6½" (2); 2½" x 10½" (2); 2½" x 14½" (2)
Fabric B: 2½" x 2½" (2); 2½" x 6½" (2); 2½" x 10½" (2)
Fabric C: 2½" x 2½" (1)
Step-by-Step Assembly
To construct your blocks, follow the steps below, referring to the illustrations and ironing your seams between each step.
Step 1: sew (1) Fabric B 2½" x 2½" piece to the left of the (1) Fabric C 2½" x 2½" piece
Step 2: sew (1) Fabric B 2½" x 2½" piece to the right of the unit
Step 3: sew (1) Fabric A 2½" x 6½" piece to the bottom of the unit
Step 4: sew (1) Fabric A 2½" x 6½" piece to the top of the unit
Step 5: sew (1) Fabric B 2½" x 6½" piece to the left of the unit
Step 6: sew (1) Fabric B 2½" x 6½" piece to the right of the unit
Step 7: sew (1) Fabric A 2½" x 10½" piece to the bottom of the unit
Step 8: sew (1) Fabric A 2½" x 10½" piece to the top of the unit
Step 9: sew (1) Fabric B 2½" x 10½" piece to the left of the unit
Step 10: sew (1) Fabric B 2½" x 10½" piece to the right of the unit
Step 11: sew (1) Fabric A 2½" x 14½" piece to the bottom of the unit
Step 12: sew (1) Fabric A 2½" x 14½" piece to the top of the unit
And you’re done!
If you’d like a printer-friendly version of these instructions, just sign up with your email below to get the FREE one-page PDF version:
Next Steps: Turn it into a quilt!
Now you’ve made your first block, it’s time to make a couple more to make a quilt! Here’s how many I would sew to make the following quilt sizes:
Crib (42" x 56"): 12 blocks
Throw (56" x 70"): 20 blocks
Twin (70" x 98"): 35 blocks
Full/Queen (98" x 112"): 56 blocks
King (112" x 112"): 64 blocks
And make sure to check out the FREE digital coloring sheet over on PreQuilt that illustrates the throw size. It’s a great way to get a sense of what the block looks like when it’s repeated (and a fun way to play with your colors!).
Looking for more classic quilt block fun?
Each one pager explains in step-by-step detail the pieces you’ll need and how to build your block, but if you’re looking for complete instructions for a Crib, Throw, Twin, Full/Queen, or King size quilt, you can find a selection of classic quilt block arrangements in the shop, including for this classic block layout!