Traditional / Public Domain — one of the most fundamental quilt units, dating to the early 1800s
Rectangular units made from one large triangle (the goose) flanked by two smaller triangles (the sky), creating a directional block that mimics a flock of geese in flight. When arranged in rows, the sense of movement is breathtaking.
Flying Geese is one of the oldest and most fundamental quilt designs, appearing in quilts from the early 1800s. The pattern name reflects the agrarian life of early American quilters, who watched seasonal flocks of geese migrate overhead as a signal of changing seasons.
Flying Geese units appear in countless traditional blocks — they are a building block of quilt design, much like letters are to words. Star blocks, tree blocks, and basket blocks all incorporate flying geese. The pattern was allegedly used in Underground Railroad quilts to signal direction of travel, though this theory remains debated among historians.
Also known as: Wild Goose Chase (as a border), Birds in the Air (variation), Flock (as a repeat)
finished Block Size
12" (block of 4 geese)
seam Allowance
1/4"
grid Basis
4 geese units, each finishing 3" x 6"
units Required
4 large triangles + 8 small triangles
All measurements include 1/4" seam allowance unless noted.
| Piece | Fabric | Cut Size | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goose Rectangle | Goose | 3 1/2" x 6 1/2" | 4 | OR use the no-waste method below |
| Sky Square | Background | 3 1/2" x 3 1/2" | 8 | 2 per goose unit |
Draw a diagonal line on the wrong side of all eight 3 1/2" background squares.
Place a background square on the right end of a goose rectangle, right sides together, with the drawn line running from the top-right corner to the center bottom. Sew on the drawn line. Trim seam allowance to 1/4". Fold back the triangle and press.
Place another background square on the left end, drawn line from top-left to center bottom. Sew on the line. Trim to 1/4". Fold back and press. You have one flying goose unit.
Tip: The goose point should be crisp and centered. If the point is cut off, your seam lines were slightly off — adjust on the next unit.
Repeat Steps 2-3 for all four goose rectangles. Each finished unit should measure 3 1/2" x 6 1/2".
Stack all four geese vertically with points facing the same direction (traditionally upward). Sew them together end to end with 1/4" seams.
Press all seams in one direction (toward the base of each goose). The block should measure 6 1/2" x 12 1/2" for a vertical column, or add side strips to make it 12 1/2" square.
See how this traditional pattern looks in different color combinations.
Column arrangement — geese flying in vertical columns
Sawtooth border — geese around the perimeter of a quilt
Barn raising — geese arranged in concentric rings