Traditional pattern, early 1800s, public domain
A dramatic block featuring rows of triangular peaks radiating outward from a central square, evoking rugged mountain ridgelines. The pattern uses many half-square triangle and flying geese units arranged to create a sense of depth and movement.
The Delectable Mountains pattern takes its name from John Bunyan's 1678 allegory 'The Pilgrim's Progress,' in which the Delectable Mountains are a place of rest and beauty within sight of the Celestial City. The quilt pattern first appeared in the early 1800s.
This pattern was especially beloved in communities where Bunyan's religious allegory was widely read. The sawtooth triangles evoke mountain ridges, and the design was often used in quilts intended as gifts or special occasion pieces, symbolizing aspiration and spiritual journey.
Also known as: Delectable Mountains Variation, The Mountains, Mountain Peaks
finished Block Size
16 inches
seam Allowance
1/4 inch
grid Basis
Center square with radiating rows of graduated flying geese units
units Required
1 center square (4"), 4 rows of graduated flying geese (4 small, 4 medium, 4 large per side), corner triangles
All measurements include 1/4" seam allowance unless noted.
| Piece | Fabric | Cut Size | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Center square | Dark red | 4.5" x 4.5" | 1 | — |
| Small flying geese — goose triangle | Dark teal | 2.5" x 4.5" | 8 | Use no-waste flying geese method |
| Small flying geese — sky triangles | Cream | 2.5" x 2.5" | 16 | 2 per goose unit |
| Medium flying geese — goose triangle | Dark teal | 3" x 5.5" | 8 | Use no-waste flying geese method |
| Medium flying geese — sky triangles | Cream | 3" x 3" | 16 | 2 per goose unit |
| Large flying geese — goose triangle | Dark teal | 3.5" x 6.5" | 4 | One per corner |
| Large flying geese — sky triangles | Cream | 3.5" x 3.5" | 8 | 2 per goose unit |
| Corner setting triangles | Cream | 5" x 5" | 4 | Cut in half diagonally |
Using the no-waste flying geese method or stitch-and-flip technique, construct 8 small flying geese (finishing at 2" x 4"), 8 medium flying geese (finishing at 2.5" x 5"), and 4 large flying geese (finishing at 3" x 6"). Press seams toward the darker triangles.
Tip: The no-waste method yields 4 identical geese from one large square and 4 small squares — very efficient.
Arrange 2 small flying geese units along each side of the center square, points facing outward. Sew pairs of geese into strips, then attach strips to opposite sides of the center square. Add the remaining two strips to complete the first ring.
Tip: Press seams away from the center to reduce bulk.
Arrange 2 medium flying geese units along each side of the first ring, maintaining the outward-pointing orientation. Piece corner connector squares as needed. Attach medium geese strips to all four sides.
Tip: Measure the block center before adding each ring to verify it remains square.
Attach the 4 large flying geese to the outer edges, one per side. Fill in the corners with setting triangles cut from the background fabric to complete the square shape of the block.
Tip: Setting triangles are cut with the straight grain on the outside edge to prevent stretching.
Press the entire block from the front, working from center outward. Square the block to 16.5" x 16.5" including seam allowances. Verify all geese points are sharp and all mountain ridges align.
Tip: A design wall lets you audition the block before committing to final assembly.
For additional complexity, surround the block with a sawtooth triangle border using small HSTs made from 2.5" squares, which echoes the mountain theme and frames the design beautifully.
See how this traditional pattern looks in different color combinations.
Four blocks rotated to create a large central medallion
Straight set with sashing for a bed quilt
Single block as a pillow top with sawtooth border