The PRETTIEST Quilt Pattern!

The Cathedral Windows quilt block is a beautifully layered project that looks intricate but is surprisingly easy to make. Using folded fabric squares, glue basting, and simple topstitching, you create soft, curved “window” frames that reveal colorful fabric beneath, resembling stained glass. It requires only a few basic materials and can be made in any size, from small 3-inch squares to larger charm squares. Though it’s a thicker block with multiple layers, the finished piece has a lovely weight and stunning texture. This timeless design is both beginner-friendly and visually striking, making it a rewarding project for any quilter.

This might be the prettiest thing I’ve ever made. It’s called Cathedral Windows, and as you can see, it really does resemble the stained glass windows found in cathedrals. I’m so happy with how it turned out, and I want to show you how to make it. It’s a thicker project with several layers, but it’s easier than it looks and absolutely stunning once finished. For demonstration, I used a 5-inch precut charm square, though my finished purple version used 3-inch squares. You’ll need a base fabric and two white squares of the same size. Start by folding the white squares diagonally and pressing them. Then glue them corner to corner onto the base fabric using a thin line of fabric glue. It doesn’t matter if they overlap a little, that’s part of the design. Once you’ve made four of these units, you can assemble them into a diamond shape, forming a four-patch block. Stitch them together in pairs, then sew the pairs into one piece, keeping that diamond layout.

Now comes the fun part: adding color to the center. Place a fabric square of the same size in the middle of your four-patch. This is where the “window” effect appears. Gently peel back the folded white fabric along the edge of your square and fold it over to create a soft curve. Topstitch along that curve, then repeat on each side. It’s much easier than it looks, no need to pin, just guide it as you sew. The result is a beautiful, dimensional curve that frames your colored fabric like a little windowpane. Continue the same process for each section until your block is complete. To make more Cathedral Windows, simply create additional four-piece units and join them together. You can build the entire base first with white squares and add your colors later, or finish each section as you go. Either method works beautifully.

This project has some thickness to it, some areas are up to five layers, but that gives it a lovely weight and texture. Every version turns out gorgeous, no matter what colors you choose. It’s a rewarding pattern that looks intricate but is surprisingly approachable. I hope you’ll give Cathedral Windows a try and share your version. Don’t forget to like and subscribe to our YouTube channel, and as always, happy sewing.