The Whirlwind block is a variation of the Pinwheels design, with just a slight difference between the two. Whirlwind include more triangles and creates a slightly more complex pattern. The block is constructed entirely from triangles and is a snap to work up.

You'll have best results using white or a solid fabric along with a single print for this block. If you wish to construct Whirlwind from scraps, use prints with similar light values. Quilts made from light and dark Whirlwind blocks can be too much on the eyes.

How big is it?

Whirlwind is a 8 inch block.

Instructions - How to create it

Whirlwind includes right and isosceles (or quarter) triangles. The block may look fairly involved, but there really are not many pieces involved. Although templates certainly will work with this block, rotary cutting is a much faster method.

Cutting the twelve pieces needed for Whirlwind is the first step.

• Cut four right triangles from a 4 7/8-inch strip of fabric A.
  
• Cut four isosceles triangles from a 5 1/4-inch strip of fabric A.
  
• Cut four isosceles triangles from a 5 1/4-inch strip of fabric B.
  

Assembling a Whirlwind block is a very straight-forward process. This block is assembled as four squares. Follow the steps below, using a quarter-inch seam allowance. The biggest trick to working this block up quickly is paying close attention to the orientation of each section. Compare your layout with the graphics included prior to stitching.

Gather one fabric A right triangle, one fabric A isosceles triangle and one fabric B isosceles triangle. Place the fabric A isosceles triangle over the fabric B triangle with right sides together and stitch. Place the fabric A right triangle over the two triangles joined in the last step and stitch. Repeat these steps with the remaining triangles to create four square units. Position one square unit so that the fabric A right triangle is in the upper right corner. Position a second square unit so that the fabric A right triangle is in the lower right corner. Place one square unit over the other, right sides together, and stitch to form the first row. Position one square unit so that the fabric A right triangle is in the upper left corner. Position a second square unit so that the fabric A right triangle is in the lower left corner. Place one square unit over the other, right sides together, and stitch to form the second row. Place the first row over the second, right sides together. Line up seams in stitch in place. Press.

What do I do with it?

Whirlwind blocks are set off by coordinating blocks of solid fabric in this layout. This design not only creates an uncluttered effect, but provides plenty of space for a complimentary quilting motif.

Whirlwind blocks form an intricate geometric pattern when placed side by side. In this layout, the orientation of alternating blocks is reversed to create a continuous lattice effect. A single print works best in this particular design to create an unbroken line for the eye to follow.

More to think about!

Whirlwind blocks work well set on the diagonal. Whirlwind blocks form a striking center of attention in this medallion setting. Simple, solid fabric strips are used as sashing to frame this design.

Sashing may also be used in a horizontal setting. In this example, plain squares of white fabric are included in the sashing. Anything more intricate in a sashing pattern may prove too distracting against the Whirlwind blocks. A single print is used in this design, but working up the blocks in complimentary fabrics would create an attractive sampler.

Related : More Free Block Patterns