Traditional / Public Domain — a variation of the Rail Fence family of strip quilts
Three fabric strips of equal width sewn together and then arranged with alternating orientations to create interlocking zigzag or woven effects. Similar to Rail Fence but traditionally uses thinner strips for a more refined appearance with more strips per block.
Fence Rail is a close cousin of the Rail Fence pattern, both named for the split-rail fences ubiquitous on the American frontier. While Rail Fence typically uses three equal strips, Fence Rail variations often feature four or more narrower strips, giving a finer, more woven appearance. Both patterns date to at least the mid-1800s and were prized for their efficient use of fabric.
This pattern family was essential to frontier quilting, where speed and fabric economy were paramount. Women heading west on wagon trains would pre-piece strip sets by hand during the journey, then assemble quilts upon arrival. The woven zigzag effect created by alternating block orientation mimics the actual construction of split-rail fences, where rails were stacked in alternating directions.
Also known as: Split Rail Fence, Worm Fence, Snake Fence, Virginia Rail Fence
finished Block Size
12"
seam Allowance
1/4"
grid Basis
4 equal strips per block
units Required
4 strips sewn together as a unit
All measurements include 1/4" seam allowance unless noted.
| Piece | Fabric | Cut Size | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strip 1 | Darkest | 3 1/2" x 12 1/2" | 1 | Outermost strip — darkest value |
| Strip 2 | Medium-dark | 3 1/2" x 12 1/2" | 1 | Second strip |
| Strip 3 | Medium-light | 3 1/2" x 12 1/2" | 1 | Third strip |
| Strip 4 | Lightest | 3 1/2" x 12 1/2" | 1 | Innermost strip — lightest value |
Cut one 3 1/2" x 12 1/2" strip from each of your four fabrics. For multiple blocks, cut 3 1/2"-wide WOF (width of fabric) strips and crosscut after sewing.
Tip: Arrange fabrics from dark to light — this value gradation is what creates the woven illusion when blocks are alternated.
Sew strips together in order from darkest to lightest, right sides together, with 1/4" seams along the long edges. Alternate sewing direction on each strip to prevent bowing.
Press all seams in one direction, toward the darkest fabric. The strip set should lie perfectly flat with no pleats or tucks at seam lines.
Tip: Use a hot, dry iron and press from the front to ensure seams are fully set.
Trim the block to 12 1/2" square. Ensure the strips run perfectly parallel to the edges of the block.
Make multiple blocks and arrange them in groups of 4, rotating each block 90 degrees. Block 1: strips vertical. Block 2: strips horizontal. Block 3: strips vertical. Block 4: strips horizontal. The value gradation creates a pinwheel-like secondary pattern.
Join blocks with 1/4" seams, pressing seams between blocks in alternating directions. Join rows in the same manner.
See how this traditional pattern looks in different color combinations.
Zigzag — alternate horizontal and vertical blocks in every position
Barn raising — rotate blocks to form concentric diamonds from the center
Streak of lightning — tilt all blocks in the same direction per row, alternating row direction