If you’re looking for a charming and modern quilt design, the Cross My Mind Quilt Block is a beautiful choice. With its clean lines and cross motif, this block adds symmetry and style to any quilting project. Whether you’re creating a baby quilt, table runner, or full-sized quilt, this pattern is an excellent option for both beginners and experienced quilters.
In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through every step to make your own Cross My Mind Quilt Block. We’ll include exact fabric cuts and measurements, so you can follow along with ease. If you love collecting new quilt patterns, be sure to bookmark this page and share it with fellow quilters.
Let’s dive in and explore how to create this eye-catching block using your favorite fabric scraps or coordinated fabric bundles!
Why Choose the Cross My Mind Quilt Block?
The Cross My Mind Quilt Block is known for its clean, geometric look and versatility in quilt patterns. It can be made using two or more colors, creating strong contrast or subtle harmony depending on your palette. It’s the perfect block to practice precision piecing and explore modern color schemes.
This block shines in both scrappy and uniform colorways. You can use leftover fabric strips from previous quilt projects or cut from fat quarters to build a cohesive design. It’s also a fantastic way to feature bold prints or use up low-volume backgrounds.
Quilters love this block for its adaptability. You can repeat the block for an entire quilt top or mix it with other blocks for a unique sampler quilt. However you choose to use it, the Cross My Mind block will definitely stand out.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather all your materials. For one 12” finished (12.5” unfinished) Cross My Mind Quilt Block, you’ll need basic tools and fabric in three contrasting colors—Background (Fabric A), Cross Vertical (Fabric B), and Cross Horizontal (Fabric C).
Here’s your fabric list for one block:
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Fabric A (Background): 4 squares 4.5″ x 4.5″, and 4 rectangles 2.5″ x 4.5″
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Fabric B (Vertical Bar): 1 rectangle 2.5″ x 12.5″
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Fabric C (Horizontal Bar): 1 rectangle 12.5″ x 2.5″
Also, you’ll need a rotary cutter, cutting mat, ruler, pins, iron, and sewing machine. Use high-quality cotton fabric and 1/4″ seam allowances for best results.
Cutting Instructions
Precision is key when cutting your fabrics for this block. The success of this quilt design depends on clean, straight edges and accurate measurements. Start by pressing all your fabric to remove wrinkles before cutting.
Cut the following:
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From Fabric A (Background):
(4) 4.5″ x 4.5″ squares
(4) 2.5″ x 4.5″ rectangles -
From Fabric B (Vertical Bar):
(1) 2.5″ x 12.5″ rectangle -
From Fabric C (Horizontal Bar):
(1) 12.5″ x 2.5″ rectangle
Label each piece to keep them organized. These dimensions will help you build a block that finishes at 12″ x 12″ when sewn into your quilt top.
Layout and Design
Now that you have your pieces, arrange them on a flat surface to visualize the layout. The block has a simple cross design with horizontal and vertical bars intersecting at the center, surrounded by background units.
Start by placing the 4.5” background squares in each corner of the block. Then, place the 2.5” x 4.5” background rectangles on the top and bottom of each side of the cross. This frames the vertical and horizontal bars.
Next, position the vertical and horizontal bars—one cutting through the block vertically and the other horizontally. The intersection of the two bars forms the focal point of the Cross My Mind design, a signature of this striking quilt pattern.
Sewing the Rows
Begin sewing the block row by row. Start with the top row: a square, a rectangle, and another square. Sew each piece with a 1/4” seam allowance and press seams toward the darker fabric or open, depending on your preference.
Repeat the same steps for the bottom row: square, rectangle, square. Then sew the two side units (each with one rectangle and one square) to either side of the horizontal bar to complete the middle row.
Now you should have three rows ready: top, middle, and bottom. Double-check your layout before assembling the full block. These units come together easily with careful piecing and pressing.
Final Block Assembly
With your rows complete, sew the top row to the middle row, aligning the seams at the intersections. Pin in place if needed to prevent shifting while sewing. Repeat for the bottom row.
Once all rows are joined, press the entire block flat. Trim the block if necessary to measure exactly 12.5” x 12.5” unfinished. This will allow it to join seamlessly with other blocks in your quilt top.
Your Cross My Mind Quilt Block is now finished! You’ve completed a beautiful and modern design that’s ideal for everything from baby quilts to table runners and larger quilt patterns.
THE BEST QUILT PATTERNS
Creative Tips for Using This Block
You can use the Cross My Mind block as a standalone design or combine it with other classic blocks. Try alternating it with Nine-Patch or Hourglass blocks to add more texture and movement to your quilt layout.
For a dramatic effect, consider using a dark background and bright bars or go for a minimalist look with neutral tones. Scrappy bars using different prints from the same color family can also add visual interest.
This block is also perfect for seasonal quilt patterns. Use reds and greens for a Christmas-themed quilt, or soft pastels for a spring baby quilt. The possibilities are endless with this versatile block!
Quilting and Finishing Ideas
After assembling multiple Cross My Mind blocks into your quilt, you can enhance the design with custom quilting. Straight-line quilting along the bars will emphasize the cross motif, while echo quilting adds depth.
Consider using contrasting thread colors for added detail or stick with neutral thread for a classic finish. Batting choices like cotton or cotton-blend provide a soft feel and drape nicely.
Once quilted, bind your quilt using a fabric that complements your cross bars. A striped or polka dot binding adds a playful edge, while solid colors lend a polished, modern look.
Final Thoughts
The Cross My Mind Quilt Block is a stunning addition to any quilter’s collection of quilt patterns. It’s quick to sew, easy to customize, and visually appealing in both modern and traditional fabric choices. Plus, it’s a great skill-builder for precision piecing.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a simple block to master or an experienced quilter designing a unique layout, this block has a place in your creative process. Its balanced proportions make it ideal for repeated block designs.
We hope this tutorial has inspired you to create your own Cross My Mind quilt. Be sure to tag your creations on social media and share this guide with your quilting community!
