Art Deco Tulip Block - Free Block Pattern (4", 6" & 8")

I was driving down our street last week and there it was, cherry blossom - the first sign that spring is definitely on its way! The weather is still quite dismal, but there's a respite from long cold winter right around the corner.

I'm excited for this approaching season so I've designed a fun new block pattern to celebrate. I hope you enjoy the Art Deco Tulip Block:

There are so many gorgeous tulip block patterns on Pinterest, but I wanted to design something a little different. The Great Gatsby and the Art Deco era were the inspiration behind this block, and I fell in love with all the designs and fashions of the 1920's and 1930's as I was researching.

The Art Deco movement influenced everything from buildings to furniture and jewelry so why can't it inspire our quilt blocks as well? It represented luxury, glamour and exuberance and was defined by its clean lines, its geometric shapes and bold, bright colours.

"Can't repeat the past?... Why of course you can!" F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

I used the beautiful Arbor Blossom fabrics from Nadra Ridgeway for my Art Deco Tulip Blocks. The colours were perfect for a garden of beautiful, bright tulips and these fabrics are so easy to work with.

The blocks are foundation paper pieced and my only advice is to make sure you follow the number order of the templates to reduce the bulk of the seams in the centre.

Knowledge of foundation paper piecing is essential and if you need a little help, you can follow any of my tutorials here:

Tutorial - Paper Piecing Part One

Tutorial - Paper Piecing Part Two

Paper Piecing Tips and Tricks

I'm only an email away if you need some extra help with foundation paper piecing, so contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

"All the bright precious things fade so fast." F. Scott Fitzgerald- The Great Gatsby

The free Art Deco Tulip Block pattern includes FPP templates for three block sizes (4", 6" and 8") so you can use them for all your spring projects. I've included a few suggestions in the free pattern but think:

• mini quilts, place mats, mug rugs
• focal blocks for cushions, journal covers or bags
• a sampler block for your quilt
• make multiples for larger quilts or quilt borders 

However you choose to use this block, I'm sure it will add some colour and beauty to your projects.

"There's so much spring in the air- there's so much lazy sweetness in your heart." F. Scott Fitzgerald

The free pattern includes full sized templates for each of the three block sizes, and step by step instructions and diagrams for block construction, so you can print and sew without any fuss. 

I've also included a colouring sheet so you can plan the placement of your colours/fabrics prior to piecing, and these are fun for the kids as well - let them colour while you sew!

They're sweet blocks and they go together quickly and easily, adding spring blossoms to all your quilting projects.

If you would like to sew your own Art Deco Tulip Blocks, simply download the PDF pattern by clicking the link: 

I'd love to see what you make with these blocks so email me a picture, tag me in a post or use the #artdecotulip hashtag so I can come over and have a look. 

I hope you enjoy this free pattern. I think it's a unique twist on a tulip block and a great way to celebrate the upcoming season.

Happy quilting :)