The Bowtie Ballet Quilt Block designed by Vanessa Goertzen of Lella Boutique is part of the celebrated Moda Blockheads 6 series. This graceful pattern combines the classic beauty of four-patch units with the elegance of half-square triangles (HSTs), creating a rhythmic design that resembles bowties twirling in perfect harmony — like dancers performing a delicate waltz.
The Bowtie Ballet block measures 9” finished, and its charm lies in the subtle movement of shapes and colors. Each bowtie unit is pieced with precision, forming a block that is both modern and timeless — ideal for quilts, pillow covers, or wall hangings.
This block is perfect for quilters who enjoy combining geometric balance with soft, flowing patterns. Whether you choose bold contrast fabrics or gentle pastels, the finished result always delivers elegance and texture.
🧵 Fabric & Cutting Instructions
For a 9” finished block, you’ll need:
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4 (3¼”) squares – Fabric A
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16 (1⅝”) squares – Fabric A
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16 (1⅝”) squares – Fabric B
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1 (3¼”) square each – Fabrics C, D, E, and F
💡 Tip: Use this layout to test color placement and create your own personalized palette. Try combining solids and prints for a unique look!
🪡 Piecing Instructions
Step 1 – Half-Square Triangles (HSTs):
On the wrong side of each 3¼″ square of Fabric A, draw a diagonal line. Pair each with fabrics C, D, E, and F. Sew a scant ¼″ seam on both sides of the drawn line, then cut on the line to yield two HSTs per pair. Press seams toward the darker fabric.
Trim all HSTs to 2¾″.
Step 2 – Four-Patch Units:
Arrange (2) 1⅝″ Fabric A squares and (2) Fabric B squares. Sew into rows, pressing seams toward the darker fabric, then join the rows and press seams open.
Make (8) A–B Four-Patch units and trim to 2¾″.
Step 3 – Bowtie Units:
Combine (2) Four-Patch units with (2) HSTs to form a bowtie layout. Sew and press seams open.
Repeat to make one unit each for C, D, E, and F.
Trim each Bowtie unit to 5″.
Step 4 – Assemble the Full Block:
Arrange the four Bowtie units as shown in the diagram and sew them together. Press seams open for a flat finish.
Trim the completed block to 9½″, which will finish at 9″ once sewn into your quilt.
🎨 Color Ideas & Inspiration
The Bowtie Ballet block shines in any palette — from romantic florals to modern solids.
Here are a few ideas:
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Soft Ballet Pastels: Blush pink, cream, and pale lilac for a dreamy vintage vibe.
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Modern Neutrals: Charcoal, ivory, and mustard for a chic contemporary quilt.
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Bright & Bold: Turquoise, coral, and navy for a statement piece with energy and contrast.
You can also alternate light and dark bowties across your quilt for a dancing, rhythmic effect — perfect for a queen-sized quilt top or a stunning table runner.
🧷 Final Thoughts
The Bowtie Ballet Block by Vanessa Goertzen celebrates the harmony of geometry and grace. It’s a beginner-friendly yet sophisticated design that teaches valuable piecing techniques a lovely addition to any quilter’s repertoire.
📥 Download the Free Bowtie Ballet Quilt Block PDF Pattern
At the end of this post, you’ll find the free PDF pattern download so you can create your own Bowtie Ballet quilt block and explore the beauty of the Moda Blockheads series.
