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Geometric Quilt Blocks

Geometric Quilt Blocks

Traditional quilting almost always relies on the symmetry of repeating patterns. Students will learn about geometric symmetry and create an illustrated quilt.

Lesson Plan

Supplies Needed

Gather all the supplies needed to bring your craft ideas to life! From paints and markers to glue and scissors, our crafts section has everything to spark creativity and make every project truly special.

  • Heavy Paper

Steps

  • Step 1

    Quilted items have been found in several ancient cultures including India, Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China, and elsewhere. In the United States it dates back to the colonial period. Have students research how it came to the USA, what cultural traditions influenced it, and some different types of quilting. Have them look at images of typical colonial-style quilts and more modern versions.

  • Step 2

    There are four types of symmetry: translational, rotational, reflexive, and glide. Ask students to find out what each type is and how they relate to quilting blocks. Tell students that traditional quilting design patterns all follow one or more of these categories.

  • Step 3

    Have students create a quilt pattern on a square piece of paper using colored pencils. Ask them to make sure the pattern is symmetrical. When the block is complete they can glue the square to a piece of heavy construction paper.

  • Step 4

    Have students present their quilt block squares and discuss the type of symmetry and pattern they used.

Standards

MATH: Create models that demonstrate math concepts and attend to precision.

MATH: Use and connect mathematical representations.

SS: Culture: Create, learn, share, and adapt to culture.

Adaptations

Ancient quilts are excellent examples of upcycling. Quilting began as a way of recycling scraps of material into patchwork designs to extend the life of the fabric. Have students explore the meaning and importance of upcycling as a way to help the health of the planet.

Textile art is a type of art made through sewing, weaving, crocheting, knitting, or embroidery. Have students explore some modern textile artists and their creations such as Faith Ringgold ("Groovin' High") and Anni Albers ("Pasture").