The Arrowhead Quilt Block, also known as Anita’s Arrowhead, is a brilliant twist on a traditional quilting design. Created by Anita Grossman Solomon, this block uses a surprisingly simple method to achieve a complex look. With just two fabric squares and three cuts, you can create a dynamic block that looks intricate but is actually quick and fun to make.
What makes the Arrowhead block so unique is its balance between simplicity and sophistication. At first glance, the design looks intricate and time-consuming, but once you try Anita’s clever technique, you’ll be amazed at how quickly the block comes together. It’s a perfect reminder that sometimes the smartest quilting solutions are also the simplest.
Measuring 8½” finished, this block is versatile enough to be used in throws, twin-size quilts, or even full queen-sized quilts. Whether you are a beginner eager to try something new or an experienced quilter looking for efficiency, the Arrowhead block delivers both style and satisfaction.
Fabric Requirements
To make a throw-size quilt (51” × 59½”), you’ll need:
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84 squares (8½” × 8½”) of assorted prints and tone-on-tones.
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⅝ yard of fabric for binding (multicolor stripe recommended).
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3⅝ yards of backing fabric.
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Batting: 59” × 68”.
For larger quilts:
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Twin size (68” × 85”) requires 40 fat quarters.
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Queen size (93½” × 93½”) requires 61 fat quarters.
How to Make the Arrowhead Block
The genius of this block lies in its construction:
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Pairing the Fabrics – Place two contrasting fabric squares right sides together. Trim them to 8” × 8” for accuracy.
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Sewing – Sew along two sides of the square, beginning and ending 2” from the corners. Rotate 180° and repeat.
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Cutting – Cut the sewn unit diagonally through the sewn corners, then make two more cuts 2” from the edges.
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Arranging – Open and press seams. Arrange the resulting pieces into the classic Arrowhead design.
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Final Block – Sew the units together, press flat, and trim to 9” × 9” unfinished (8½” finished).
This clever method saves time while keeping accuracy intact.
Assembling the Quilt
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Arrange the blocks into 7 rows of 6 blocks each for the throw size.
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Sew rows together, pressing seams carefully to keep intersections crisp.
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Add borders if desired for extra size and framing.
The block’s dynamic diagonal lines create movement across the quilt top, giving it a sophisticated yet playful appearance.
Quilting and Finishing
The suggested quilting design, called Holly Daze, uses continuous-line motifs that flow diagonally across the blocks. You can also choose free-motion swirls or straight-line quilting for a more modern look.
Finish with 2¼” wide binding strips, hand-stitched or machine-sewn for durability.
Why You’ll Love the Arrowhead Block
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Uses only two squares and three cuts – quick and efficient.
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Perfect for scrappy quilts with lots of fabric variety.
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Adaptable to many sizes (throw, twin, queen).
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Simple enough for beginners, yet interesting for advanced quilters.
At the end of this article, I will make the free PDF pattern available for download, so you can start experimenting with the Arrowhead block and bring its timeless charm into your quilting projects.
The Arrowhead Quilt Block Pattern is a wonderful mix of tradition and innovation. Anita Grossman Solomon’s clever cutting method makes this block both accessible and rewarding, giving you a design that looks far more intricate than the effort it takes.