How to Sew a Basic Flying Geese Block

By: Elaine Huff

The Flying Geese patch is another basic building block of so many blocks and can be used in a variety of ways.

flying geese quilt block

Fabric Requirements:

The finished foundation rectangle is always twice as long as it is wide – 2″ x 4″, 3″ x 6, 1.5″ x 3″, etc. and the squares that are used to make the corner triangles are always the same as the width of the rectangle. Of course you need to add 1/2″ to your finished size to figure out the size of the rectangle and squares. So if you want a finished patch that measures 2″ x 4″, you need a rectangle that is 2.5″ x 4.5″ and two 2.5″ squares.

For this example I've used:

  • Light/Yellow: 2 - 2.5" squares
  • Dark/Black: 1 - 2.5" x 4.5" rectangle

flying geese quilt block

Sewing Directions:

Step 1:

First you will need to mark a diagonal line on the back of the two Light/Yellow 2.5" squares.

flying geese 1

Step 2:

Place one square on one end of rectangle, right sides together. Sew close to the marked line in what will be the seam allowance. By sewing what will be a scant 1/4″ seam allowance, you are allowing for the space that the thickness of the fabric and thread take up when turned and pressed. It is easier to start sewing at the corner of the square that is in the middle of the rectangle.

flying geese 2

Step 3:

Match the corners of the square and press. When you match the corners, there is no need to square up your patch.

flying geese 4

Step 4:

Open up the square and trim the seam allowance.

flying geese 5

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Step 5:

Turn the corner back and you have half of the Flying Geese block done.

flying geese 5

Step 6:

Place the other square on the opposite end of the rectangle and repeat the process. You’re done!

flying geese 7

I hope you've enjoyed my method for making a Flying Geese quilt block.

If you liked this post and want to see more quilting tutorials like this, simply click here to sign up for my newsletter and also receive a free PDF quilt pattern called Chained Weathervane.

Happy Quilting!

Elaine

Follow the attached links for four select tutorials YOU can make now that you understand the Flying Geese block!

https://fabric406.com/blogs/fabric406-blog/how-to-sew-a-mrs-bryan-s-choice-quilt-block-version-2-0

https://fabric406.com/blogs/fabric406-blog/easy-pattern-prairie-flower-quilt-block

https://fabric406.com/blogs/fabric406-blog/how-to-sew-a-rangers-pride-quilt-block

https://fabric406.com/blogs/fabric406-blog/traditional-quilt-block-eddystone-light