Single Irish Chain Block Patterns (9, 10, and 12-inch blocks)
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Add some magic to your quilting projects with the Single Irish Chain quilt block! Chain blocks can take your quilting projects to the next level with this seemingly intricate block – but guess what? The Irish chain quilt block is easier than you think.
Be sure to grab a copy of these free patterns today!
Single Irish Chain Quilt Block
There are a few traditional quilt blocks that I really love, and one of them is the single Irish chain quilt block. These blocks are both simple and appealing to the eye, making them a great choice for any quilting project. Additionally, they can be paired with different fabric layouts to create unique and beautiful designs.
What is an Irish chain block?
An Irish Chain Quilt is usually built around two key blocks: the Nine Patch chain block, which is a grid of nine squares sewn together, three by three, alternating with a plain block that serves as a space between the chain blocks. The plain blocks are the secret to the Irish Chain’s eye-catching weave, giving the quilt its signature linked effect.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a whole world of variations on the traditional Irish Chain, from single, to double, to triple chains, each offering a different rhythm and flow.
Why Make a Chain Block
- Versatile – Chain blocks blend seamlessly with almost any quilt block you pair them with.
- Size flexibility means whether you’re working on a mini quilt or a king-size bedspread, there’s a chain block size that fits perfectly.
- They’re just plain fun to make! Once you get the hang of it, you won’t want to stop.
Ways to use a chain block
I have several block tutorials on my site, and any of them would be perfect to incorporate a chain block. The blocks are of various sizes, but you can use any of the chain block patterns I have shared today to make a quilt.
In the examples below, instead of using a plain block in between the chain blocks, I used various block patterns/designs.
- Scrappy Heart Block
- Popsicle Block
- Star Block (Found in my CSwe Festive Christmas Quilt Pattern)
- Acorn Block (This will be a quilt pattern I am releasing in the fall, but technically, you can make it without a pattern with just the block instructions.)
- Other blocks to use: Butterfly, Christmas tree, or Christmas Present Block
You can also make quilts with just the chain block. Instead of intermixing a patterned block, you can use a solid/plain block These quilts look so intricate but are actually very simple to make!
The top 2 quilts are made using the simple 9-patch block; the 3rd uses a 9 or 12-inch chain block, and the 4th quilt is the double Irish chain block. (Which I hope to release as a pattern soon.)
Pin this project for later.
Are you ready to make these Chain Blocks? Keep reading for the instructions.
Where Do I Get the Patterns?
Look under materials needed. That is where I always put the link to the free patterns. Click the link, add the pattern to your cart, and check out. (It takes about 15 seconds for the process.) A copy of the pattern will be emailed to you as well. (As long as you enter your email correctly – you would be shocked at the number of emails returned as undeliverable I get every day!)
Block information
- Simple 9-patch Chain Block – Finished size 9 by 9 inches
- 9-inch Chain Block – Finished size 9 by 9 inches
- 10-inch Chain Block – Finished size 10 by 10 inches
- 12-inch Chain Block – Finished size 10 by 10 inches
Skill Level
Beginner-friendly
Time Needed:
About 20 minutes for a single block.
Helpful Tips:
- Press your fabric before cutting. Using starch helps when sewing with smaller pieces.
- I love this new pressing tool/seam roller I recently bought. It works so much better than finger pressing and saves me from going back and forth from my machine to my ironing board.
- Sew these chain blocks using a scant 1/4 inch seam allowance, and don’t forget to double-check your seams with a seam allowance ruler.
- Press the seams towards the darker/colored fabric.
How to Make an Irish Chain Block
Materials needed
- Patterns
- Ruler
- Rotary cutter and mat
- Basic Sewing Supplies
Simple 9-patch Chain Block
Simple 9-patch Chain Block instructions
piecing instructions
9-inch Chain Block
piecing instructions
10-inch Chain Block
piecing instructions
12-inch Chain Block
piecing instructions
Share Your Finished Project!
If you end up making some of these blocks or quilts, make sure to tag me on Instagram, using #scatteredmompatterns! You can also share an image to my private Facebook sewing group!
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