This version of the Double Hourglass quilt pattern 2 is a nine patch format using squares and half square triangles with three (3) fabrics. This version was first identified by Nancy Cabot in 1933. (Source: Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns compiled by Barbara Brackman).
Today’s quilters sometimes refer to a different quilt block as the Double Hourglass, which we are referring to as Double Hourglass Quilt Pattern 1. Both quilt blocks have two hourglass shapes but are very different in design and layout.
Double Hourglass quilt pattern 2 is perfect for beginners who want to practice piecing and half square triangles. Here is the fabric layout for this quilt block.
Here is a fabric calculator for common block sizes for the Double Hourglass 2 quilt block:
How to Make the Double Hourglass Quilt Pattern 2
The Double Hourglass Quilt Block 2 is a nine patch format made from three fabrics. It uses squares and half square triangles to form a quilt pattern that highlights two hourglasses within the block.
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There are a few versions of Double Hourglass quilt blocks with the same name, but are very different designs. We've also written a tutorial about the other popular quilt block with the same name and refer to it as Double Hourglass 1 quilt pattern.
This pattern for Double Hourglass is perfect for beginners who want to practice half square triangles and basic patchwork piecing.
Materials
- 1/4 yard of three (3) fabrics, or three (3) fat quarters
- Thread
Tools
- Sewing machine
- Iron
- Ironing board
- Rotary cutter
- Cutting mat
- Quilter's ruler
- Marking pen or pencil; I used a Frixion pen
Instructions
- Start by cutting your fabrics. Refer to the fabric calculator above. My finished block is 9" so I cut the center and corner fabrics at 3-1/2" square and the two fabrics used for the half square triangles at 3-7/8" square.
- Let's make the half square triangles first. On the wrong side of the lightest fabric mark a diagonal line.
- Layer right sides together of your two fabrics for the half square triangles. Sew 1/4" on either side of your marked line. If your sewing machine has a 1/4" foot, it makes it much easier! For Bernina, that is either foot #37 or foot #57. Here is sewing the first seam.
- Turn and sew 1/4" from the other side of the marked line.
- Using your rotary cutter, cut along the marked line to form two half square triangles.
- Press the seams to your preference. See our article on pressing seams for quilting for more information. Lay out the units to the quilt block pattern.
- Sew each set of units into the three (3) rows. Press seams to your preference.
- Sew the rows together. Press seams to your preference. You have a finished Double Hourglass 2 quilt block!
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One variation for this quilt block is to use a fourth fabric for the center squares. Fussy cut some great print or pattern for the center block and surround it with solids or blenders to compliment the print. For a toddler, pick out one of their favorite characters and highlight them in the center block.
Most of all have fun and make amazing quilts for those you love!
Browse through more free quilt patterns on Create Whimsy. Also, check out our article that covers popular quilt patterns.
