Super Simple Cat Quilt Blocks: Two Adorable Designs!

Updated at: 13/05/2025

Are you ready to unleash your inner quilter and create some purr-fectly adorable cat quilt blocks? This tutorial presents two super simple designs, perfect for beginners and experienced quilters alike. Whether you're crafting a cozy cat-themed quilt for a loved one or adding a playful touch to your own home décor, these charming blocks are a delightful way to express your creativity. You'll be amazed at how easily these charming feline faces come together with basic patchwork techniques.

Forget complicated patterns and fussy cutting; these designs focus on clean lines and simple shapes, making them ideal for a quick and satisfying sewing project. From playful kittens to sophisticated adult cats, these designs offer versatility and charm. Ready to get started stitching these delightful feline friends? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions for each design!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Fabric (white and patterned)
  • Ruler
  • Pen
  • Sewing Machine
  • Iron
  • Pins
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use a sharp rotary cutter and cutting mat to prevent injury. Dull blades increase the risk of slips and cuts.
  • Pre-wash your fabrics before cutting and sewing to avoid shrinkage after the quilt is completed.
  • Handle your sewing machine needles carefully. Never force fabric through the machine; this can bend or break needles, leading to potential injury.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Fabric for Cat Quilt Block 1

    • One 5x10 inch patterned rectangle, one 3x5 inch patterned rectangle, two 2.25x2.25 inch patterned squares, two 2.5x2.5 inch patterned squares, one 5x5 inch white square, one 5x2 inch white rectangle, and one 2.5x2.5 inch white square.
    Cut fabric pieces for Cat Quilt Block 1: One 5x10 inch patterned rectangle, one 3x5 inch patterned rectangle, two 2.25x2.25 inch patterned squares, two 2.5x2.5 inch patterned squares, one 5x5 inch white square, one 5x2 inch white rectangle, and one 2.5x2.5 inch white square.
    Prepare Fabric for Cat Quilt Block 1

  2. Assemble Cat Head for Block 1

    • Sew the larger patterned rectangle and the tiny white square together.
    • Fold and press the seam. Trim excess fabric.
    Fold and press the seam. Trim excess fabric.Fold and press the seam. Trim excess fabric.
    Assemble Cat Head for Block 1

  3. Create and Attach Ears for Block 1

    • Sew the white rectangle to the two smaller patterned squares (mind the direction for the ears to face correctly).
    • Attach the ears to the cat's head.
    Attach the ears to the cat's head.Attach the ears to the cat's head.
    Create and Attach Ears for Block 1

  4. Complete and Finish Cat Block 1

    • Attach the white square and remaining body pieces to complete the cat.
    • Press and trim the finished cat block.
    Press and trim the finished cat block.Press and trim the finished cat block.
    Complete and Finish Cat Block 1

  5. Prepare Fabric for Cat Quilt Block 2

    • Three patterned rectangles (2.5x4.5 inches, 6.5x4.5 inches, 6.5x3.25 inches) and two white rectangles (6.5x3.25 inches, 1.75x4 inches), and four 2x2 inch squares for ears.
    Cut fabric pieces for Cat Quilt Block 2 (four cats): Three patterned rectangles (2.5x4.5 inches, 6.5x4.5 inches, 6.5x3.25 inches) and two white rectangles (6.5x3.25 inches, 1.75x4 inches), and four 2x2 inch squares for ears.
    Prepare Fabric for Cat Quilt Block 2

  6. Create Ears for Block 2

    • Make ears for the four cats using the same technique as in Block 1.
    Make ears for the four cats using the same technique as in Block 1.
    Create Ears for Block 2

  7. Assemble Cat Bodies for Block 2

    • Assemble the cat bodies using the patterned and white rectangles and the ears. Follow the same process as the first block, noting the differences in placement for the lying down cats.
    Assemble the cat bodies using the patterned and white rectangles and the ears. Follow the same process as the first block, noting the differences in placement for the lying down cats.
    Assemble Cat Bodies for Block 2

  8. Complete Cat Quilt Block 2

    • Sew all four cat blocks together to create the final quilt block.
    Sew all four cat blocks together to create the final quilt block.
    Complete Cat Quilt Block 2

Read more: DIY Cuddly Cat & Dog Bed: A Super-Warm, Easy Tutorial

Tips

  • Use a ruler and pen to mark your sewing lines for accuracy.
  • Pay close attention to the direction of the fabric when creating the ears to ensure they face correctly.
  • Press and trim after each step for clean, finished seams.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent Seam Allowance

Reason: Varying seam allowances lead to inaccurate block sizes and a messy-looking quilt.
Solution: Use a 1/4 inch seam allowance consistently throughout the project with the help of a seam allowance guide.

2. Improper Fabric Matching/Placement

Reason: Not paying attention to fabric direction and placement can result in distorted or misaligned patterns within the blocks.
Solution: Pay close attention to fabric direction (e.g., naps, stripes) and accurately place patterns according to the pattern instructions.

3. Inaccurate Cutting

Reason: Inaccurate cutting of fabric pieces creates blocks that are too large or too small, causing gaps or overlaps in the final quilt.
Solution: Use a rotary cutter and a ruler for precise cutting, ensuring you double-check measurements before cutting.

FAQs

What materials do I need to make these cat quilt blocks?
You'll need fabric in various colors (for the cat's body, face, and background), batting, backing fabric, a sewing machine (or needle and thread), rotary cutter and mat (optional but helpful), and quilting pins.
Can I adjust the size of the cat quilt blocks?
Absolutely! The patterns provided are easily scalable. Simply increase or decrease the size of your squares and triangles to achieve your desired block dimensions. Remember to maintain the proportions between the different pieces.
What if I don't have a rotary cutter?
You can certainly make these blocks without a rotary cutter. Use sharp fabric scissors to cut your fabric pieces. It may take a little longer, but the end result will be just as adorable!