How to Make a Simple Strip Set Quilt Block (Beginner Friendly)

If you’re looking for a quilt block that’s quick, beginner-friendly, and a great way to show off your fabrics, a strip set block is one of the easiest places to start.

It’s simple, it comes together fast, and it’s perfect for using both bold prints and blender fabrics.

Laying out your strips first helps you balance color and contrast before sewing your strip set together.

What is a strip set in quilting?

A strip set is made by sewing long strips of fabric together side-by-side, then cutting them into segments to create quilt blocks.

Instead of piecing small pieces one at a time, you’re working in rows first—which makes the process faster and more consistent.

Why strip sets are great for beginners

Strip sets are one of my favorite techniques to recommend because they:

• Save time (less cutting, more sewing)

• Help keep your blocks consistent

• Make it easier to work with multiple fabrics

• Let your fabric choices really shine

  
  

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by complicated patterns, this is a great way to build confidence.

Choosing fabrics for a strip set

This is where things start to get fun—and where your fabric choices really matter.

If you’re pulling fabrics for a strip set, you can browse my current quilting fabric collection here → [Shop Quilting Fabrics]

For a balanced look, you’ll want a mix of:

• Focal prints (like florals or bold designs)

• Blender fabrics (to add texture and balance)

  
  

Blenders are especially helpful in strip sets because they keep the block from feeling too busy while still adding interest.

Not sure what a blender fabric is or how to use it? I break it down here → [What is Quilting Blender Fabric]

Mixing a bold print with softer blender fabrics creates contrast while keeping the overall look balanced.

Example strip set layout

Here’s a simple layout you can try:

• 1 bold print

• 1 blender fabric

• 1 contrasting print or solid

  
  

Repeat or mirror the arrangement depending on how wide you want your block.

Basic strip set cutting guide

Here’s a beginner-friendly example:

• Cut strips 2 ½” wide (or your preferred width)

• Sew strips together using a ¼” seam allowance

• Press seams to one side or open

• Cut your strip set into equal segments (for example, 6 ½” pieces)

  
  

From there, you can:

• Keep them as-is for simple blocks

• Or flip/rotate pieces to create more dynamic designs

Once your strips are sewn together, your strip set is ready to be cut into sections.

Cut your strip set into equal sections to prepare for creating your quilt blocks.

How to add variety to your blocks

Once you’ve made your strip set, you can:

• Rotate every other piece

• Flip sections to create a “zig-zag” effect

• Mix light and dark fabrics for contrast

This is where a simple strip set turns into something that looks much more complex than it actually is.

Cut your strip set into equal sections to prepare for creating your quilt blocks.

A note on fabric choice (this matters)

If your strip set feels “off,” it’s usually not your sewing—it’s your fabric balance.

Too many bold prints can feel chaotic.

Too many solids can feel flat.

That’s where blender fabrics come in—they help tie everything together without overpowering your design.

Final thoughts

Strip sets are one of those techniques that are simple enough for beginners but still fun for experienced quilters.

They’re fast, flexible, and a great way to experiment with fabric combinations—including those blender fabrics that make everything come together.

Ready to start your own strip set?

You can browse my current fabric collection here → [Shop Quilting Fabrics]

Your finished block comes together by combining simple strip set sections into a clean, balanced design.