Quilting is a beautiful blend of tradition, creativity, and skill, with each pattern offering its own charm and possibilities. One block that stands out for its striking visual appeal and versatility is the Bento Box Block Pattern.
Inspired by the organized compartments of Japanese bento lunch boxes, this pattern provides quilters with a canvas to experiment with color, layout, and symmetry. Let’s explore the unique elements of the Bento Box block and guide you through crafting this timeless and adaptable quilt block.
A Japanese Inspiration: The Story Behind the Bento Box Block
The Bento Box Block Pattern takes inspiration from the Japanese bento box, which is traditionally divided into neat sections for a balanced meal. In much the same way, the Bento Box quilt block is composed of a central square surrounded by strips, creating a look that reflects the organized beauty of bento boxes.
This layout allows quilters to play with color and fabric, arranging complementary or contrasting fabrics to create dynamic effects that bring out the beauty of structure within each block.
Versatility in Design: Exploring Bento Box Layouts
At its core, the Bento Box block consists of four smaller blocks that are joined together in a specific arrangement, giving quilters the opportunity to experiment with layout and color placement.
This pattern is especially popular for its flexibility—blocks can be rotated or positioned in various configurations, such as a traditional straight set, staggered designs, or a striking barn raising layout. Each arrangement brings out new visual effects, making the Bento Box pattern an exciting choice for both beginners and experienced quilters.
Full Pattern: Click Here
Fabric Requirements for Bento Box Block (Light, Dark-Cool, Dark-Warm Fabrics)
To create one 12½-inch Bento Box block, gather the following fabric pieces:
Light Fabric
- (2) Strips: 2½ inches x 5¼ inches (for strip piecing)
- (4) Strips: 2½ inches x 4½ inches
- (2) Strips: 2½ inches x 6½ inches
Dark, Cool-Toned Fabric (e.g., Blue)
- (1) Strip: 2½ inches x 5¼ inches (for strip piecing)
- (2) Strips: 2½ inches x 4½ inches
- (2) Strips: 2½ inches x 6½ inches
Dark, Warm-Toned Fabric (e.g., Magenta)
- (1) Strip: 2½ inches x 5¼ inches (for strip piecing)
- (2) Strips: 2½ inches x 4½ inches
Step-by-Step Instructions for Assembling the Bento Box Block
Step 1: Assembling the First Block Corner with Magenta
- Strip Piecing: Stitch a 2½-inch x 5¼-inch light-colored strip to a 2½-inch x 5¼-inch magenta strip along the long edge. Press the seam toward the magenta strip.
- Cut Segments: Square up one end of the strip set, then cut two 2½-inch segments.
- Assemble the Segment:
- Take one segment and sew a 2½-inch x 4½-inch magenta rectangle to the top, aligning the magenta area on the left.
- Press the seam toward the magenta area.
- Complete the Corner:
- Sew a 2½-inch x 4½-inch light strip vertically to the left side of the unit. Press the seam toward the magenta.
- Attach a 2½-inch x 6½-inch light strip to the top of the unit. Press the seam toward the magenta.
- Duplicate the Corner: Repeat the process to create a second identical magenta block corner.
Step 2: Assembling the Second Block Corner with Blue
- Strip Piecing: Sew a 2½-inch x 5¼-inch blue strip to a 2½-inch x 5¼-inch light strip.
- Cut Segments: Square up one end of the strip set and cut two 2½-inch segments.
- Assemble the Segment:
- Sew a 2½-inch x 4½-inch light rectangle to the top of one segment, with the blue positioned in the lower left.
- Press the seam toward the blue and light-colored area.
- Complete the Corner:
- Attach a 2½-inch x 4½-inch blue rectangle to the right of the segment and press the seam toward the blue.
- Sew a 2½-inch x 6½-inch blue strip to the top and press the seam upward.
- Duplicate the Corner: Make a second identical blue and light-colored block corner.
Step 3: Completing the Bento Box Quilt Block
- Arrange the Corners: Lay out the two magenta and two blue block corners in two horizontal rows.
- Join the Corners: Sew the two corners in each row together, pressing seam allowances in opposite directions for easy alignment.
- Join the Rows: Sew the rows together to complete the Bento Box block, pressing seams for a smooth finish.
Finished Block Size: 12½ inches x 12½ inches.
Tips for Successful Bento Box Blocks
- Chain Piecing: Once familiar with the process, use chain piecing to sew multiple strips at a time for efficient assembly.
- Pressing for Precision: Always press seams toward the darker fabric or as indicated to create a clean look and help with alignment.
- Experiment with Color: Try using complementary or monochromatic colors to see how different hues can change the block’s impact.
The Bento Box Block Pattern is a delightful choice for quilters seeking a mix of tradition and creativity. Its clean lines and customizable layout make it a beloved design, offering endless opportunities to experiment with color and structure.
Whether you’re arranging blocks in a simple grid or a more complex barn raising layout, each configuration brings new energy to the pattern. Let the Bento Box block inspire you to explore your creative potential and craft a quilt that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
