I saw the tutorial on Melanie Ham’s YouTube channel. I then ran out to a fabric store and purchased a cheap brother sewing machine and made this in one day. My daughter loves the movie hocus pocus. I found this fabric at Joann Fabrics and here it is in all its glory. Pretty good for my first attempt (Patting himself on the back).
The Split Nine Patch quilt block is a variation of the classic Nine Patch block, a design that dates back to early American quilting traditions. The Nine Patch was one of the first blocks many beginner quilters learned because of its simple construction—nine equal squares arranged in a 3×3 grid.
Origins of the Split Nine Patch
The Split Nine Patch evolved as quilters experimented with ways to create more dynamic layouts. Unlike the traditional Nine Patch, which uses solid blocks or simple alternating colors, the Split Nine Patch incorporates half-square triangles in some of its sections. This addition gives the block a diagonal division, which creates more movement and opens up new layout possibilities.
Although there is no single inventor of the Split Nine Patch, its development aligns with the evolution of scrap quilting and efficiency techniques in the 19th and 20th centuries. Quilters often repurposed fabric scraps to create interesting patterns, and the Split Nine Patch provided an opportunity to play with contrast and shading.
Characteristics of the Split Nine Patch
• Uses a standard 3×3 grid layout.
• Features half-square triangles in place of some squares.
• Offers strong diagonal lines, making it a good choice for creating secondary patterns in larger quilts.
• Works well in scrap quilting due to its ability to use small fabric pieces.
Popularity and Uses
By the 20th century, quilters had begun using the Split Nine Patch to create stunning optical effects. The block can be arranged in various ways to form zigzags, diamonds, or even Log Cabin-like effects when multiple blocks are assembled. The design has remained popular in both traditional and modern quilting styles.
It is especially favored in scrappy quilts, Amish quilts, and contemporary quilting, where value contrast is used to create depth and movement. With the rise of quilting patterns and online tutorials, the Split Nine Patch has continued to be a versatile and beloved block.