My Five Favorite Courthouse Steps Block Layouts
If you’re looking for a classic quilt block that’s just packed with possibilities for your next quilting project, how about the Courthouse Steps block?
Below are five of my all-time favorite patterns for this block (including one that’s really just one gigantic courthouse steps block!). Included are four of my favorite repeating block patterns, where the underlying patchwork may be the same, but the end results range from minimalist classic cool to scrappy color block fun!
For the classic repeating block patterns below, I've created free one-page downloads for each block layout; and for all of the quilts highlighted below, I also offer full patterns with complete cutting instructions to make the standard range of quilt sizes, available in my shop.
Now, let's dive into my five favorite classic Courthouse Steps block layouts!
1. The Classic
Featuring an iconic layout of the Courthouse Steps block, this quilt pattern exudes traditional charm and sophistication. The classic arrangement highlights the block's distinctive stepped appearance, creating a clean, orderly design. This timeless layout is just perfect for those who appreciate classic quilt patterns and want to showcase the beauty of traditional quilting patchwork patterns.
2. Zigzag Plaid
Embrace modern geometric flair with Zigzag Plaid, a classic Courthouse Steps block arrangement. This striking zigzag layout adds dynamic movement to your quilt, with just a simple rotation of the same block! The alternating directions of the blocks create a plaid-like pattern that is both visually engaging and contemporary. Zigzag Plaid is ideal for quilters looking to infuse their projects with a fresh, modern twist while still making the classic patchwork layout.
3. Vertical Waves
Featuring a captivating vertical arrangement of the classic block, stacking the Courthouse Steps blocks in a way that mimics the gentle ebb and flow of waves, adding an element of motion to your quilt.
And with a background fabric anchoring all the blocks across the quilt top, this quilt block layout provides the perfect opportunity for putting your scraps to work!
4. Color-Block Scrappy Mix
For another fun take on a scrappy layout, the Color-Block Scrappy Mix mixes and matches the fabrics into pairs. This layout variation adds a bit of structure by pairing fabrics within each Courthouse Steps block, creating a more cohesive yet still delightfully eclectic look (you can find a helpful map of suggested pairings to follow here). The result is a quilt that balances the playful randomness of a scrappy quilt with the visual harmony of coordinated color blocks.
5. A Gigantic Block of a quilt
While Disco Steps might not seem like an obvious choice for a round-up of blocks, I would argue that it’s just perfect as it’s one giant Courthouse Steps block in disguise! Its vibrant strip-pieced sets dance across the quilt top, highlighting the underlying construction through a mesmerizing, maze-like sense of outlines and movement. With its large (and long!) patchwork pieces, the pattern encourages quilters to trim-and-sew-as-they-go, making for a fun assembly process!
Explore the Perfect Blend of Old and New
Each of these Courthouse Steps quilt block layouts offers a unique way to bring this beloved quilt pattern to life. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of the Classic layout or want to turn up the volume with Disco Steps, there's a Courthouse Steps arrangement to suit every quilter's taste and style.
And if you’re seeking the guidance of a traditional pattern, complete arrangements with cutting instructions for the range of standard quilt sizes are available in the shop:
