Sheepfold Free Quilt Pattern
Introducing our New Sheepfold Free Quilt Pattern!
We’re thrilled to announce that our newest quilt pattern, featuring a Sheepfold design, is now available for free download! This classic design combines striking simplicity with endless possibilities, making it a favorite among quilters of all skill levels.
Read the blog post below or download a free PDF copy to make your own Sheepfold quilt. It comes complete with step-by-step instructions and full-color illustrations to guide you through the process.
Let your creativity flow and have fun piecing together this timeless pattern! We can’t wait to see your beautiful creations – be sure to share them with us on social media using #NorthStarQuiltShop!
Sheepfold: A Classic Quilt Block
The Sheepfold quilt block has a rich history steeped in both practicality and artistry. It originated in the early 19th century, during a time when quilts served as both functional bed coverings and expressive works of art. The name "Sheepfold" likely derives from its resemblance to a pen or enclosure used for sheep, mirroring pastoral life, which was a significant aspect of rural communities.
Historically, sheep farming was foundational to many American settlements, providing wool for warmth and fabric for household items. As quilting emerged as a cherished craft among women, the Sheepfold block became a symbol of heritage and domesticity. Its geometric design, characterized by a series of interlocking shapes and sharp angles, reflects the precision and skill involved in the quilting process. The block often utilizes a combination of light and dark fabrics, enhancing the visual depth and creating an impression of a three-dimensional pen.
Today, Sheepfold continues to inspire quilters, offering a playful and simple design that allows for personal creativity. Its history and meaning resonate with those who appreciate the art of quilting and the rich narratives embedded in every stitch. The Sheepfold quilt block remains a testament to the enduring nature of quilt-making, celebrating both heritage and creativity in the quilting community.
How to Make a Sheepfold Quilt
In the upcoming sections, we will provide detailed instructions on how to create a beautiful Sheepfold Quilt. From selecting the right fabrics to piecing together the blocks and finally assembling the quilt top, we will guide you through each step of the process. For more details and diagrams you can download this free Sheepfold pattern as a PDF to print or keep in your own files. Whether you're a seasoned quilter or just starting out, this tutorial will help you unleash your creativity and achieve stunning results. Let's dive in and bring this classic quilt block to life!
Fabric Requirements
This quilt pattern includes directions for three different-sized quilts: Baby (45” X 45”), Throw (60” X 75”), and Twin (75” X 90”). You will need nine fat quarters or five half yards for a Baby-sized quilt. You will need twenty fat quarters or ten half yards for a Throw-sized quilt. You will need thirty fat quarters or fifteen half yards for a Twin-sized quilt. For details about binding and backing requirements, you can download the pattern.
You can create your very own Jacob’s Ladder quilt using these exact fabrics for a beautiful and unique project. Be sure to explore our Snowy Winter bundle, currently in stock at the store featuring ten beautiful fabrics from various designers.
Cutting Instructions
As mentioned above, you can use Fat Quarters or Half Yards for this quilting project. See the sections below for cutting requirements and guidance on maximizing your fabric. For detailed cutting diagrams, you can download the pattern.
Fat Quarters
When using Fat Quarters cut the following pieces from each:
- four - 3“ X 3”
- four - 3” X 7½”
- two - 2” X 15½”
- two - 2” X 12½”
- one - 7½” X 7½”
When using Fat Quarters follow these cutting directions:
- Cut two 3” strips off a long side
- Sub-cut two 3” squares and two 3” X 7½” pieces from each strip
- Cut two 2” strips off a long side
- Sub-cut two 2” X 15½“ pieces
- Cut one 7½” square and two 2” X 12½” pieces from the remaining fabric
Half Yards
When using Half Yards cut the following pieces from each:
- eight - 3“ X 3”
- eight - 3” X 7½”
- four - 2” X 15½”
- four - 2” X 12½”
- two - 7½” X 17½”
When using Fat Quarters follow these cutting directions:
- Cut two 3” strips off a long side
- Sub-cut four 3” squares and four 3” X 7½” pieces from each strip
- Cut two 2” strip off a long side
- Sub-cut four 2” X 15½” pieces
- Cut two 7½” squares and four 2” X 12½” pieces from the remaining fabric
Block Assembly
The following section will explain how to construct the Sheepfold block. For detailed diagrams download the pattern.
Sheepfold Assembly
- Choose one 7½” X 7½” piece and label it Fabric A. Choose two 3” X 7½” pieces in a second fabric
- and label it Fabric B.
- Sew the 3” X 7½” Fabric B pieces to the top and bottom of the 7½” X 7½” Fabric A piece, and press seams. Set aside.
- Sew two 3” X 3” Fabric A pieces to the top and bottom of a 3” X 7½” Fabric B piece, and press seams.
- Repeat Step 3 to make two units total.
- Sew the units created in Steps 3-4 to the left and right of the unit created in Step 2, and press seams.
Border Assembly
- Choose a third fabric for the borders and label it Fabric C.
- Sew 2” X 12½“ Fabric C pieces to the left and right of the block, and press seams.
- Sew 2” X 15½” Fabric C pieces to the top and bottom of the block, and press seams.
- Top Assembly
This section will instruct you on how to combine your Sheepfold blocks to create a finished quilt top in your desired size. For diagrams of each size option, you can download the pattern.
Baby Sheepfold Quilt Top
- Repeat the Block Assembly section to create nine Sheepfold blocks in total.
- Sew three blocks together to create a row. Repeat to create three rows in total.
- Sew the three rows together to complete the quilt top.
Throw Sheepfold Quilt Top
- Repeat the Block Assembly section to create twenty Sheepfold blocks in total.
- Sew four blocks together to create a row. Repeat to create five rows in total.
- Sew the five rows together to complete the quilt top.
Twin Sheepfold Quilt Top
- Repeat the Block Assembly section to create thirty Sheepfold blocks in total.
- Sew five blocks together to create a row. Repeat to create six rows in total.
- Sew the six rows together to complete the quilt top.
Sheepfold Free Quilt Pattern
We hope you thoroughly enjoy this complimentary quilt pattern and have a wonderful time creating your quilt masterpiece. Regardless of your level of quilting experience, this pattern offers a fun and delightful project to show off your creative spirit. Download the free pattern today and begin crafting your extraordinary Jacob’s Ladder quilt!
Share the Quilty Love
We're thrilled to see your Sheepfold quilt and would love to see your makes! Leave a comment below, or tag us on social media @NorthStarQuiltShop with photos of your makes to spread the creativity. Your creativity and passion truly shine through in your projects.
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Have questions about quilting or need inspiration for your Sheepfold project? Drop a comment below and our team at North Star Quilt Shop will be delighted to help you out! Whether you're a beginner or seasoned quilter, we're here to support your creative journey. Let's chat quilts!
