Traditional pattern, early 1900s, public domain
An iconic interlocking ring design that creates a stunning allover pattern of curved arcs and melon-shaped spaces. This beloved pattern requires mastery of curved piecing and precise template work to achieve its characteristic flowing design.
The Double Wedding Ring pattern gained enormous popularity during the 1920s and 1930s, though its curved interlocking design may trace back to earlier quilt traditions. It became one of the most widely made quilt patterns in America during the Great Depression era.
Traditionally made as a wedding gift, symbolizing the interlocking of two lives in marriage. During the Depression, it was a popular scrap quilt pattern, using up even the smallest fabric remnants. It remains one of the most recognized quilt patterns worldwide.
Also known as: Wedding Ring, Rainbow Ring, Around the World
finished Block Size
16 inches (one full ring unit)
seam Allowance
1/4 inch
grid Basis
Curved templates — arc segments, melons, and connectors
units Required
4 arcs (each with 5 wedge pieces and 2 end connectors), 1 melon center, 4 background corners per unit
All measurements include 1/4" seam allowance unless noted.
| Piece | Fabric | Cut Size | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arc wedge | Assorted scraps | 2.5" x 3" (template A) | 20 | 5 per arc, 4 arcs per unit; use template for curved shape |
| Arc end connector | Rose | 2" x 2.5" (template B) | 8 | 2 per arc; use template for shape |
| Melon center | Rose | 5" x 8" (template C) | 1 | Use template; football/melon shape |
| Background corner | Cream | 8.5" x 8.5" (template D) | 4 | Concave curved shape; use template |
Trace and cut all curved pieces using acrylic or plastic templates. Mark the center point on every curved edge with a small clip or dot. Accuracy in cutting is critical for smooth curved seams.
Tip: Add a small notch at the midpoint of each curve for matching during assembly.
Sew five wedge pieces together in sequence to form a single arc strip. Add one end connector piece to each end of the arc. Press all seams in one direction. Repeat to make four arcs per ring unit.
Tip: Chain piece the wedges for efficiency, then add end connectors separately.
Pin an arc to one long curved edge of the melon center, matching center points and ends. Sew the curved seam slowly, easing the fabric. Repeat for the opposite side of the melon. Press seams toward the melon.
Tip: Pin generously along the curve — every 1/2 inch — and sew with the concave piece on top.
Sew background corner pieces to the remaining curved edges of the arcs. Match center clips and pin carefully. The background piece has concave curves that must ease around the convex arc edges.
Tip: Sew with the concave (background) piece on top to better control easing.
Sew completed ring units together, matching the arcs where rings interlock. The end connectors of adjacent units share seam intersections. Work row by row for an allover design.
Tip: Layout all units on a design wall before joining to verify color arrangement.
Press the entire quilt top gently, pressing curved seams toward the darker fabric. Trim and square the edges, adding a gentle scalloped or straight border as desired.
See how this traditional pattern looks in different color combinations.
Traditional allover interlocking rings — minimum 4x5 ring units for a throw
Single ring unit as a pillow or wall hanging centerpiece
Two-ring table runner with scalloped edges