The "Shadow Hearts" quilt block is a stunning design that uses a 6x6 grid to create the illusion of overlapping hearts with casting shadows. This block is perfect for using charm squares or your favorite scraps to create a modern, romantic look.
Pattern Specifications
- Finished Block Size: 18" x 18" (based on 3-1/2" units)
- Grid Layout: 6 x 6 (36 total units)
- Unit Cut Size: 3-1/2" x 3-1/2"
- Seam Allowance: 1/4"
1. Fabric & Cutting Guide
To achieve the look in the diagram, you will need four distinct fabric types: Background, Shadow (Grey), Heart 1 (Dark Pink), and Heart 2 (Light Pink).
| Fabric Color | Solid 3-1/2" Squares | 3-7/8" Squares for HSTs |
|---|---|---|
| White (Background) | 11 | 9 |
| Grey (Shadow) | 4 | 6 |
| Hot Pink (Heart 1) | 3 | 4 |
| Light Pink (Heart 2) | 3 | 3 |
2. Half-Square Triangle (HST) Construction
Create your HST units using the "Two-at-a-Time" method. Once sewn and cut, trim each HST unit to exactly 3-1/2" x 3-1/2" before assembling the block.
- Grey/White: 6 units
- Hot Pink/White: 4 units
- Light Pink/White: 3 units
- Hot Pink/Grey: 1 unit (The transition piece in Row 3)
- Light Pink/Grey: 1 unit (The transition piece in Row 3)
3. Block Assembly Instructions
Refer to the pattern image to ensure all triangles are pointing in the correct direction. The "shadow" effect relies on the precise orientation of the HSTs.
- Rows 1 & 2: Build the top frame and the initial grey shadow. Row 1 is made entirely of Grey/White HSTs.
- Rows 3 & 4: These are the transition rows where the colors begin. Row 3 contains the unique "Heart-on-Shadow" HSTs.
- Rows 5 & 6: These rows complete the base of the hearts. Note that the bottom-right corner is finished with two solid White background squares.
Pro Tip: Press your seams in Row 1 to the right, Row 2 to the left, and continue alternating. This allows the seams to "nest" together for perfectly aligned corners.
Final Touch
Once all 36 units are sewn together into the 18" block, give it a final press with steam. This block looks incredible when rotated in a quilt layout to create a "cascading hearts" effect!
