Double Irish Chain quilt block

Double Irish Chain quilt block has been a very popular quilt block for many years. The final quilt is very impressive and truly a traditional beauty.

I have been wanting to make one for some time now, and this tutorial has awakened something in me.

It looks complicated, but be careful — this is just an illusion. The actual block is super easy, and I consider it perfect for beginners, as it gives you a lot of practice with seam nesting.

via Martin Maurais

A little bit of history

via womenfolk.com

There is some uncertainty whether the Double Irish Chain quilt block could be another romantic myth or if the pattern truly came from Ireland.

Current documentation indicates that the Irish Chain quilt pattern was developed in America in the early 1800s. Quilt historian Barbara Brackman states that 1814 is the earliest known date for this pattern, with dated examples appearing consistently across the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

Cutting Instructions for the Double Irish Chain quilt block

This block consists of two different blocks joined together. Use just a light and a dark fabric, and you can never go wrong! Start by making a test block before cutting pieces for the whole quilt.

Always remember FINISHED SIZE means the size it will be in a completed quilt. The measurements already include the ¼ inch seam allowance.

*SQ = Square/Squares

Finished Size	Light Square	Dark Squares	Dark & Light Strips	Light Strips	Dark & Light Strips
10 x 5 inches	3.5 inches	1.5 inches	1.5 x 3.5 inches	1.5 x 3.5 inches	1.5 x 5 inches
20 x 10 inches	6.5 inches	2.5 inches	2.5 x 5.5 inches	2.5 x 6.5 inches	2.5 x 8 inches

via Megan Collins

Names of the block

Grandmother's Irish Chain, Irish Chain, Cube Lattice, Mary Moore's Double Irish Chain, Double Irish Cross, Double Irish Chain, Tiger Lily

#REFERENCE: Maggie Malone “5500 Quilt Blocks Designs”

via @seasidequilting

Block Variations

Just by changing the layout of your fabric squares and maybe adding a color or two, you can easily make different variations of the block using the same tutorial.

Video tutorial of the Double Irish Chain quilt block

I hope you will enjoy this video tutorial on how to make the DOUBLE IRISH CHAIN quilt block and don't forget to subscribe to my channel for more quilt blocks!

Have you made this block using our tutorial?

Then share it using the hashtag #thequiltcodex

Sharing the knowledge! If you liked this tutorial then I would love it if you would follow me on social media so you never miss another post.