Nine-patch quilt block calculator

Your nine-patch cut sizes

3.5 in cut squares

Cut each square

9 squares

Squares to cut

Cut list

Piece	Count	Cut dimensions (in)
3 × 3 block squares	9	3.5 × 3.5

Cut layout

Use the sizes in the cut list to measure your fabric. This drawing is not to scale.

Measurements & allowances

Finished unit size: 3 in
Cut unit size: 3.5 in
Unfinished block size: 9.5 in
Squares per block: 9 squares
Total squares: 9 squares

Finished block size is the size after the block is sewn into the quilt.
The cut squares include seam allowance. Split the total by fabric to suit your block layout.

Keep this plan

Save it in this browser, or export JSON for an editable backup.

Project name

Open a saved nine-patch plan

Open a project file (.json)Choose an exported QuiltMargins file, up to 100 KB.

Divide the finished block into thirds

A nine-patch has nine equal squares in three rows and three columns. Divide the finished block size by three to find the finished size of each square. The calculator then adds your seam allowance to both sides of each square. Enter the number of complete blocks you want to make.

Check a nine-inch block

A 9-inch finished nine-patch uses squares that finish at 3 inches. With ¼-inch seams, cut those squares 3½ inches. You'll need nine per block, and the sewn block should measure 9½ inches before it's joined into the quilt. Two blocks need 18 cut squares in total.

Count colors from your layout

The calculator gives the total piece count, without assigning colors. If one fabric goes in the four corners and the center, count five squares of that fabric and four of the other fabric for each block. Keep those groups separate when checking yardage, especially when the fabrics have different usable widths.