Choosing a Grid

Six grids, six different looks. The fastest way to decide is to try them in the Quilt Editor, where the layout redraws in real time. Here's what to expect from each.

At a glance

• Standard — Predictable, efficient. Every block sits flat in rows and columns. Fewest extra pieces. Lowest yardage.
• On-Point — Dynamic, dramatic. Blocks rotate 45 degrees. Setting triangles add visual interest and fabric.
• Clipped On-Point — The diagonal energy of on-point, trimmed to a clean rectangular edge. No setting triangles.
• Hexagonal — Organic, honeycomb arrangement. Each block touches six neighbors instead of four.
• Tumbler — Alternating trapezoids create built-in movement and rhythm, even with simple blocks.
• Baby Blocks — Three-diamond cells that create a 3D tumbling blocks illusion. Value contrast is essential.

Block compatibility

Most blocks work in any grid, but some pairings are stronger:

• Center-focused blocks (stars, medallions) shine on-point or hexagonal, where the arrangement draws the eye to each block's center.
• Blocks with strong diagonals (pinwheels, flying geese) work best in standard or clipped on-point, where diagonal lines stay diagonal.
• Directional blocks (baskets, houses) need care in rotated grids. Check orientation within each cell.
• Simple or scrappy designs suit tumbler and baby blocks, where the grid shape itself contributes to the pattern.

Yardage impact

Grid type affects how much fabric you need:

• Standard and clipped on-point use the least fabric per block.
• On-point adds setting triangles along every edge, increasing yardage.
• Hexagonal, tumbler, and baby blocks have non-rectangular cells, so yardage depends on the specific cell geometry. BloqLoft calculates exact requirements for all grid types.

Try before you commit

Switch between grid types in the Quilt Editor's Layout tab. The layout redraws in real time so you can compare the visual effect, piece count, and yardage. Switching is non-destructive: your blocks, colors, and sashing preferences are preserved.