Picture Frame Quilt Block Tutorial
In this tutorial, I show you how to make the Picture Frame quilt block, which is part two of my Rotating Bow Ties tutorial. I start by sewing together 2 inch strips of black framing fabric with 2 1/2 inch strips of a coordinating print, then cut the strip set into 7 1/2 inch squares. After cutting each square diagonally in both directions to form an X, I use the triangle pieces that were set aside from the Rotating Bow Ties block to create this design. Once the pieces are arranged into V shapes pointing toward opposite corners, I sew the triangles into halves and then join the halves together. One block is simple on its own, but when several are sewn together, they create a beautiful picture frame effect across the quilt top.
The Picture Frame quilt block is part two of the Rotating Bow Ties block tutorial. If you made the Rotating Bow Ties block, this one starts the same way, but it uses the opposite triangle pieces from the diagonal cuts. The block looks more complicated than it is, but it is simple to piece once the units are cut and arranged.
With a few fabric strips and some diagonal cuts, you can create a framed design that really shines when several blocks are sewn together.
Fabric Strips
For this block, choose one fabric for the frame and one coordinating print or color fabric.
In this sample, black was used as the framing color, along with a printed fabric for contrast.
Cut the following strips:
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2 inch strips of the framing fabric
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2 1/2 inch strips of the color or print fabric
Sew the strips together into a strip set made of four strips total, just like in the Rotating Bow Ties tutorial.
Cut the Strip Set
Once your strip set is sewn together, cut it into 7 1/2 inch lengths.
Each 7 1/2 inch section will become the base for your triangle units.
Next, cut each square diagonally from corner to corner in both directions, forming an X. This will create four triangle pieces from each square.
These diagonal cuts create two different sets of pieces. The Rotating Bow Ties block uses one set, while the Picture Frame block uses the other set.
For this tutorial, set aside the Rotating Bow Ties pieces and keep the pieces needed for the Picture Frame block.
Arrange the Picture Frame Block
To make one Picture Frame quilt block, cut two of the 7 1/2 inch squares from your strip set. The pieces from those two squares will make one small quilt block that finishes at 6 1/2 inches.
Lay out the triangle pieces and rotate them until the design forms the Picture Frame shape.
The layout should create a V shape pointing toward one corner and another V shape pointing toward the opposite corner. It may take a little adjusting at first, but once the pieces are turned the right way, the design will come together clearly.
Sew the Block Together
After the pieces are arranged, sew the block together in sections.
Start by sewing two triangle pieces together to create one half of the block. Then sew the remaining two triangle pieces together to create the other half.
Press your seams, then place the two halves right sides together and sew them into one complete block.
This method helps keep the triangle shapes organized and makes the block easier to assemble accurately.
Create the Picture Frame Design
One Picture Frame block may not look very striking on its own, but the design becomes much more interesting when multiple blocks are sewn together.
As you place the finished blocks side by side, the frame effect begins to appear. The angled pieces create a bold, connected design that looks like picture frames across the quilt top.
This is a simple block with a beautiful payoff, and it is a great way to use the leftover pieces from the Rotating Bow Ties block.
Final Thoughts
The Picture Frame quilt block is quick, beginner-friendly, and much easier than it looks. With just a strip set, a few diagonal cuts, and a little block rotation, you can create a striking framed layout for your next quilt project.
Give this block a try, and enjoy seeing the picture frame pattern come together as you sew. Happy sewing!
