This nature-inspired design creates quilts with a warm, homey feeling. Maple Leaf is a charming block comprised entirely from squares and right triangles. These shapes are most often constructed from a single color and white fabrics, but complimentary light and dark shades work just as well.

The leaf stem is most often appliqued, but embroidery or ribbon embellishment could be used in its place.

One of the greatest benefits of the Maple Leaf block is the flexibility in positioning the leaf motif. Altering the block's orientation throughout your design creates a carefree windblown look or more intricate patterns.

What is the size of this block?

Maple Leaf is most often constructed in 9 inch blocks. Larger blocks measuring 12 x 12 also provide appealing results, however.

Instructions - How to create it

Each Maple Leaf block contains eight right triangles and 5 squares. If an applique´ stem is desired, this is constructed from 3/4 inch wide (at least) rectangular fabric strip with diagonally cut edges.

To construct the block, 3 squares, 4 right triangles and 1 rectangular strip of fabric A are required, as well as 2 squares and 4 right triangles of fabric B.

Because only basic shapes are involved, either templates or rotary cutting may be used for this block. For simplicity's sake, directions for rotary cutting will be given. Whichever method is selected, however, remember to include a quarter inch seam allowance for best results.

To create a 9 inch block, cut 3 squares from a 3 1/2 inch strip of fabric A, and 2 squares from a 3 1/2\uffff inch strip of fabric B. Next, using 3-7/8 inch fabric strips, cut four right triangles from fabric A and 4 from fabric B. Following the diagram, make two diagonal cuts on a 3/4 inch wide strip of fabric A if you wish to include an applique´ stem.

To piece the block, first stitch all the fabric A and fabric B triangles together. This will form four triangle-pair squares. With the right side of both fabrics together, stitch a straight seam by hand or machine, with a 1/4" seam allowance. Press the seam allowance.

With these squares constructed, next piece the block's rows. There is one important thing to keep in mind at this stage, before stitching, lay out pieces of the block to make certain the triangle-pair squares are aligned properly, as there is variation between the rows. Compare your layout with the graphics and instructions below.

Stitch one fabric B square, one fabric A square and one triangle-pair square together. NOTE : Be sure the fabric A triangle abuts the fabric A square. Stitch two fabric A squares and one triangle-pair square together. Again, make sure the fabric A triangle touches touches the fabric A square. Stitch two triangle-pair squares and one fabric B square together. NOTE : The triangle-pair squares have a different orientation in this row. Make sure the middle fabric A triangle touches the fabric B square.

Once the rows are complete, press all seams. Before joining the rows to form the completed block, double check the positioning. The most common mistake made at this point is a reversed row. Always compare your results against the graphics supplied in this pattern. Carefully match seams and stitch the first and second rows together. Press the resulting seam. Now stitch the third row to the second, and press this seam. For best results, go back and press all seam allowances flat once more now that the block is completed.

To create an applique stem, draw a .25 inch x 3.6 inch rectangle on paper (freezer paper works well for this purpose). When cutting out the rectangle, make diagonal cuts on either edge in the same manner used to cut fabric for the stem. Center the shape on the reverse side of your fabric stem, then fix in place with a glue stick. Use the glue stick again to coat the upperside of the paper, and turn in the .25 seam allowance on either side of your stem. For better results, mitre the corners so that they lay flat against the paper. With the seam allowance turned under, pin the stem in place at the base of the leaf. It should run diagonlly from one corner of the square to the other. Using thread that matches fabric A, slip stitch the stem in place.

    

How do I use it?

Maple Leaf blocks made from fabrics in a single color family create a striking quilt design. Surround the blocks with a coordinating border to increase the dramatic impact. For more variety, construct your blocks from a variety of autumnal shades to fashion a seasonal favorite.

To set off beautiful prints, surround each Maple Leaf block with sashing. Complete the effect by using a coordinating border, too. This setting frames the leaves, showcasing variations in color and print.

Let's get creative

Whether using a single color family or complimentary colors, distinct designs are possible by altering block orientation. In this example, leaves of complimentary colors are clustered in groups of four, with the leaves pointing outwards. Interspersed with blocks of solid fabric, concentric rings of leaf clusters are formed across the design.

To create a dramatic effect, work up the blocks in a single color, using the leaves as a border for solid fabric in the same shade. Not only does this provide an ample canvas for large quilting motifs, use of a single color in this layout draws the eye to the center.

Related : More Free Block Patterns