Bird of Paradise Quilt Block Free Tutorial
The Bird of Paradise quilt block is a striking design that comes together beautifully using an easy paper piecing technique combined with simple four-patch units. This classic block features bold angles and crisp points, creating a dynamic look with minimal effort. When sewn together in a quilt, the repeating pattern forms stunning secondary designs, adding depth and movement to the overall composition. Whether you're new to paper piecing or looking for a fresh block to add to your collection, this tutorial will guide you to achieve precise results with ease.
Fabric Requirements for a 12" Finished Bird of Paradise Quilt Block:
- Light/White: 4 - 5" squares, and 8 - 2.5" squares
- Medium/Pink: 4 - 3" x 5.5" (approximately) rectangles, and 6 - 2.5" squares
- Dark/Green: 4 - 3" x 5.5" (approximately) rectangles, and 6 - 2.5" squares
Sewing Directions:
Four Patch Units:
Step 1:
Using four of the Medium/Pink 2.5" squares and four of the Light/White 2.5" squares, sew together two Four Patch units like the ones shown in the picture below. This is the basic four-patch block. Here are the steps:
- Sew the units into two rows and press the seam allowances away from the White fabric.
- Sew the two rows together and press the seam allowance. You can see that I've used the tweak/twirl/furl method for pressing but you can press whichever way you like.
- Repeat for a total of two units.
Step 2:
Repeat Step 1 only substituting the Dark/Green 2.5" squares for the Medium/Pink 2.5" squares.
Step 3:
Repeat Step 2 only substituting the remaining Medium/Pink 2.5" squares for the Light/White 2.5" squares. You only need to make one unit like this.
Triangle in a Square Units:
Step 4:
To make these units using the paper piecing technique, print out four of the templates (there are two to a page) shown below. Be sure to print them out at 100% size. Here is the link: Triangle in a Square Template
Step 5:
Using the four Light/White 5" squares, the Medium/Pink 3" x 5.5" rectangles, and the Dark/Green 3" x 5.5" rectangles, paper piece four Triangle in a Square units.
- Note that the bottom two units in the picture below are mirror images of the top two.
- For detailed instructions for making the Triangle in a Square unit check out my tutorial at this link: https://fabric406.com/blogs/fabric406-blog/how-to-make-a-triangle-in-a-square-quilt-block
Putting It All Together:
Step 6:
Lay out all the Four Patch units and the Triangle in a Square units as shown in the picture below. From here the block goes together like a basic Nine Patch block.
Step 7:
Sew the units into three rows as shown.
Step 8:
Press the seam allowances away from the Triangle in a Square units.
Step 9:
Sew the three rows together.
Step 10:
Press the seam allowances. You can see in the picture below that I've pressed toward the center of the block but you can press however your wish.
Layout Ideas:
Here's your basic 4 x 4 layout using similar colors to the tutorial.
This is the same layout as above except that every other block is rotated. Totally different look!
For this example I've used that same layout as the previous layout except for adding in sashing and cornerstones. It makes a lovely nine patch design. The other nice thing about sashing is that you don't have to fuss with matching so many seams.
This is an example of using a simple chain block for an alternating block.
This monochromatic alternating layout uses a large Hourglass block.
For this layout I've used an applique block for the alternating block.
This is an on-point layout with chain block quarters used for the setting triangles.
And this scrappy on-point example has contrasting sashing and cornerstones plus background fabric for the setting triangles.
Conclusion:
The Bird of Paradise block went together quickly. I always dread doing paper piecing and I don't know why - it went together without a hitch! I also had fun with layouts - I especially like the third one.
I hope you have enjoyed this tutorial. If you like it and want to see more, just click HERE to sign up for my newsletter and receive a free PDF quilt pattern called "Chained Weathervane".
Happy Quilting!
Elaine
P.S. Looking for star blocks? Check out this link: https://fabric406.com/blogs/fabric406-blog/tagged/eight-pointed-star-blocks
P.P.S. Check out my Etsy shop at https://www.etsy.com/shop/fabric406