top of page
Search

Drunkard's path patchwork Bow quilt block sewing tutorial

Updated: May 27


The Drunkard's Path is a classic quilting block that consists of two curved pieces that are joined together to form a square. The curves of the pieces are designed to create a meandering, slightly unpredictable pattern reminiscent of the wandering path of a 'drunkard'! The block can be created in a variety of colours and patterns, and is often used as a building block for larger quilting projects.


Quilt block with floral pattern and white geometric shapes on a wooden table. Pastel thread spools and small scissors nearby.

For this bow block, I've made my original Drunkards Path download smaller. You will need to download the new size (below) if you wish to sew this size block yourself. (the original block template would make a huge bow!)



Because I'm using the same patchwork technique, this tutorial is similar to my "How to Sew the Drunkard's Path Quilting Block" guide. If you're familiar with that project, you'll recognize the steps here. The primary difference is the final arrangement of the shapes, which will create a bow design.


The finished size of this quilt block is 17" square.


Print the templates to 100% scale and cut out the two shapes.


Use 1'4" seam allowance throughout.


Sewing Instructions -


  1. Cut 8 from template one (the corner shape) in the background fabric and 8 in the bow fabric.

Cut 8 from template 2 (the quarter circle) in the background fabric and 8 in the bow fabric.

Pink and maroon fabric pieces, some semicircular, arranged on a white background. The image conveys a sense of crafting or sewing.

Also for the bow block, you will also need to cut -

One 4" square in the bow fabric

Eight 4" squares in the background fabric.


Set these squares to one side for now.


2. Pair up one quarter circle shape and one corner shape in opposite colours.

Two fabric pieces on a white background, burgundy semicircle and pink angular shape. Simple, minimalistic composition.


3. Find the centre of the curve of the quarter circle and the centre of the curve of the corner shape by folding in half and creasing. Place the two right sides together, lining up the centre marks.

Two overlapping fabric pieces, one pink and one dark red, arranged on a white background, creating a simple geometric design.


4. Pin the centre point and line up the raw edges, easing the corner shape to match the curve of the quarter circle without stretching the fabric. Use plenty of pins!


Pink fabric pinned to maroon fabric with colorful pins on a white background, showcasing a sewing project in progress.


5. Sew in place using 1/4" seam allowance. Snip into the seam allowance along the curve. This will help the seam to sit flat when pressing.

Two overlapping fabric swatches, one pink and one burgundy, displayed against a white background. The pink fabric is pleated.


6. Open and press.

Pink and burgundy fabric square with a curved seam, on a white background. The design creates a visually pleasing geometric pattern.


7. Repeat with the rest of the pieces.


8. Arrange the squares into the design of a bow, using the 4" squares to fill the gaps - see below image


Floral quilt pattern with pink and yellow flowers on a blue background. White curved shapes create a symmetrical bow design.

9. Sew the squares together in rows and press, then sew the rows together and press.


You're Done! This fun block can be used to make cushion covers, bags and of course, quilts.


Floral quilt block with curved bow patterns on a wooden table. Pastel threads and fabric nearby. Scissors in the corner. Bright, creative setting.

I hope you enjoy making your own quilt blocks! Happy sewing,

kym signature in black handwriting







Fabric used -

Liberty Oyster White Wiltshire Shadow Blender

Comments

Subscribe here • Don’t miss out!

Thanks for subscribing!

bottom of page