how-to make a zigzag plaid courthouse steps quilt block
Courthouse Steps quilt blocks are an absolute joy to make! I’ve pulled together some of my favorite classic layouts to share with you, including this variation!
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 Zigzag plaid Courthouse Steps Quilt Block Variation
Fabric Requirements
Before you begin, you’ll need the following fabric pieces:
Fabric A: 2½" x 2½" (1)
Fabric B: 2½" x 2½" (1); 2½" x 6½" (1); 2½" x 10½" (1)
Fabric C: 2½" x 2½" (1); 2½" x 6½" (1); 2½" x 10½" (1)
Fabric D: 2½" x 6½" (1); 2½" x 10½" (1); 2½" x 14½" (1)
Fabric E: 2½" x 6½" (1); 2½" x 10½" (1); 2½" x 14½" (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 A 2½" x 2½" piece
Step 2: sew (1) Fabric C 2½" x 2½" piece to the right of the unit
Step 3: sew (1) Fabric E 2½" x 6½" piece to the bottom of the unit
Step 4: sew (1) Fabric D 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 C 2½" x 6½" piece to the right of the unit
Step 7: sew (1) Fabric E 2½" x 10½" piece to the bottom of the unit
Step 8: sew (1) Fabric D 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 C 2½" x 10½" piece to the right of the unit
Step 11: sew (1) Fabric E 2½" x 14½" piece to the bottom of the unit
Step 12: sew (1) Fabric D 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!