A bento box quilt block pattern explains how to assemble each corner of the block separately. This is a simple method that will help you create a variety of quilt layouts if you like to use a wide assortment of fabrics to make a quilt. If you like to sew with strip piecing techniques, be sure to look at the nine-patch bento box quilt pattern, which was a design used for the 2015 New Year’s Day mystery quilt. If the layout seems confusing, try working with only three fabrics for your first few bento box quilt blocks. After you are familiar with the design, sew with additional fabrics. There are many bento box quilt patterns. Color and contrast are sometimes a bit confusing to new quilters.
How to Do It
The Bento Box quilt block finishes at 12 inches by 12 inches and is made from 2 1/2-inch wide strips of fabric cut in different lengths. Reduce cutting chores by using jelly rolls—coordinated packs of fabric made up of 2 1/2-inch wide strips cut from selvage to selvage. Compare prices of jelly roll packs. Sew your bento box quilt blocks with a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Choose three fabrics: one light, one a darker cool shade (like blue) and one a darker warm shade (like magenta). These are only suggestions, you can come up with your own. Light Fabric
(2) 2 1/2 inches by 5 1/4 inches strips (for strip piecing)(4) 2 1/2 inches by 4 1/2 inches strips(2) 2 1/2 inches by 6 1/2 inches strips
Dark, Cool Shaded Fabric (Blue)
(1) 2 1/2 inches by 5 1/4 inches strips (for strip piecing)(2) 2 1/2 inches by 4 1/2 inches strips(2) 2 1/2 inches by 6 1/2 inches strips
Dark, Warm Shaded Fabric (Magenta)
(1) 2 1/2 inches by 5 1/4 inches strips (for strip piecing)(2) 2 1/2 inches by 4 1/2 inches strips
Assembling Block Corners (Magenta and Light Fabric)
First, start by making one block corner that measures 6 1/2 inches by 6 1/2 inches.
Sew Remaining Bento Box Corners
Next, sew the remaining blue and light-colored bento box quilt blocks.
Assemble the Bento Box Quilt Block
The last step for completing the quilt is to join the block corners.
Optional Assembly Method
If you are making a scrap quilt, you might prefer to arrange block corners on a design wall or other flat surface before joining any of the units. This method allows more layout flexibility for the finished quilt.
Schematic for Bento Box Patches
Use this schematic as a cutting reference for making the bento box patch sizes. All squares are cut 2 1/2 inches by 2 1/2 inches. It is perfectly fine to sew bento box quilt blocks one patch at a time rather than assembling them with strip sets.
Faith Hall’s Bento Box Quilt
Example of a bento box quilt made by Faith Hall.
Bento Box Quilt by France Powers Gilmour
Example of a bento box quilt made by France Powers Gilmour.
