What is an Asymmetrical Rail Fence Quilt Block
Traditional Rails Transition to a Modern Look with Batik Charm Squares
How many ways can you make a rail fence quilt? Anyone who has made a rail fence quilt block knows there are countless variations to this traditional pattern. What once began as a block with three equal strips has come a long way in the past 100+ years! This Easy Batik Rail Fence Quilt Tutorial only uses two strips, making it the easiest of all. To mix it up even more, here’s an unexpected twist with an asymmetrical rail fence quilt block made with Batik 5″ Charm Squares.
Traditional quilting was a utilitarian method of upcycling old clothes. Wow, have we come a long way from those early days. The conventional method of lining up evenly made blocks isn’t exactly the norm anymore either. Once you take the first step outside-the-block, your quilting will never be the same. If you haven’t sewn any asymmetrical quilt blocks yet, this is a perfect place to start.
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Make Asymmetrical Rail Fence Quilt Blocks with Batik Charm Squares
The asymmetrical batik rail fence quilt block begins with your favorite collection of charm squares. This simple variation uses batik charm squares cut in half which are then sewn into strips of three. The idea is to mix up all those different fabrics for a scrappy look. BUT, the finished 3-strirp block isn’t an exact square. Therefore, it won’t sew together into a rail fence quilt top without some modifications. What to do to solve this dilemma?
First, sew three half-charm squares together into a rectangle which will measure 5″ x 6 1/2″. This creates a rail fence style rectangular block. It still won’t sew together easily as a rail fence, but we can fix that very easily. The simple solution is to add a single 2″ x 6 1/2″ strip along the long side of the block to create a perfect square. Actually, a perfect asymmetrical square. The extra strip along one side distorts the block’s symmetry yet adds the ideal opportunity for a striking rail fence quilt.
Quilting Bold and Outside the Block
Mix it Up with an Asymmetrical Batik Rail Fence Quilt!
Note how the turquoise rails travel diagonally.
If you know my quilting, you probably realize two things about me. First, I love mixing up lots of bright fabrics to make a bold statement. Secondly, the more disproportionate I can make my blocks the better. I love an inconsistently balanced quilt. These two factors make quilting so much more appealing to me and keep me coming back for more.
Let me share a secret to keep all those bold colors from becoming a chaotic eyesore! Create a common element in your blocks. In this case, it’s the turquoise rectangles. They are cut from different turquoise fabrics, but the color creates the rail which gives the quilt its dominant pattern and focus. These turquoise rails also harmonize all those colors into submission!
You may certainly go completely scrappy and mix it all up which can be lots of fun, too. Though chances are you may loose the visual rail fence pattern without some continuity within those rectangular strips.
Quick and Easy Quilting with Precuts
This asymmetrical batik rail fence quilt block sews together quickly using precuts which is always a huge timesaver. Then long strips of your focal rail fabric create a beautifully designed quilt that will have lots of visual appeal. So, dazzle them with your next quilting project and make this simply pieced quilt. The results are stunning, and nobody needs to know how easy it is to make!
More Rail Fence Block Pattern Options
Now Try Some More Ideas
If you want to keep it quick and simple, check out this Easy Rail Fence Quilt that will be finished in an afternoon. It’s a perfect beginner’s quilt pattern with a very simple block assembly. Another fun pattern is the Double Rail Fence Quilt. This is probably one of the most traditional layouts you’ll find. If you’re up for an adventure, check out the Wild Rails pattern and see how a mistake leads to an improv beauty with this asymmetrical triple rail quilt!
What’s Your Back Story?
A Perfect Finish
No quilt is complete without the perfect quilt backing. Whether you choose a simple pieced backing or an improv work of art, make sure both sides of your quilt have a story to tell. Don’t forget your final opportunity for a fabulous statement by choosing your binding well.
Quilting is such a visually exciting journey. Don’t miss out on a single opportunity to add your personal touch to each quilt you make. Create a new fabric combination for a perfect color palette that leads to a beautiful quilt design. Change up an old standby pattern into something more amazing to totally awaken your creative mind. Keep it personal and make it yours! Just Quilt!
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