Traditional pattern, mid-1800s, public domain
A mesmerizing variation of the Log Cabin block built with strips sewn at 45-degree angles around a center square, creating a complex octagonal design with dramatic light-and-dark contrast. Paper piecing ensures the precision needed for this intricate block.
The Pineapple block emerged in the mid-1800s as an elaborate variation of the Log Cabin pattern. While the standard Log Cabin uses strips on four sides, the Pineapple adds strips on the diagonal corners as well, doubling the complexity and visual impact.
The pineapple was a symbol of hospitality in colonial and 19th-century America, making this pattern a natural choice for quilts meant to welcome guests. The pattern showcases the light-and-dark contrast central to Log Cabin tradition, where light fabrics symbolized the hearth and dark fabrics the surrounding cabin walls.
Also known as: Pineapple Log Cabin, Maltese Cross Variation, Windmill Blades
finished Block Size
14 inches
seam Allowance
1/4 inch
grid Basis
Center square with concentric rounds of strips at 0° and 45° angles
units Required
1 center square, 6 rounds of 4 side strips (24 strips), 6 rounds of 4 corner strips (24 strips), 4 final corner triangles
All measurements include 1/4" seam allowance unless noted.
| Piece | Fabric | Cut Size | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Center square | Ivory | 3" x 3" | 1 | Cut slightly oversized for paper piecing |
| Round 1 side strips | Orange | 1.5" x 4" | 4 | Cut oversized; trim after sewing |
| Round 1 corner strips | Purple | 1.5" x 3.5" | 4 | Sewn at 45° to corners |
| Round 2 side strips | Orange | 1.5" x 5.5" | 4 | Strips grow longer with each round |
| Round 2 corner strips | Purple | 1.5" x 5" | 4 | Sewn at 45° to corners |
| Round 3-6 side strips | Orange | 1.5" x 6" to 1.5" x 10" | 16 | Increase length by ~1" per round |
| Round 3-6 corner strips | Purple | 1.5" x 5.5" to 1.5" x 9" | 16 | Increase length by ~1" per round |
| Final corner triangles | Purple | 4" x 4" | 4 | Cut squares in half diagonally for corner fill |
Print or trace the Pineapple foundation pattern onto lightweight paper. The foundation shows all sewing lines for 6 rounds of strips at both 0-degree and 45-degree angles. Number each section in sewing order.
Tip: Use a reduced stitch length (1.5mm) for easier paper removal later.
Position the center square right side up over section 1 on the unprinted side of the foundation. Hold up to a light source to verify full coverage with seam allowance overlap. Pin or glue in place.
Tip: A small dab from a fabric glue pen holds the center more securely than a pin.
Place the first side strip right sides together on one edge of the center square. Flip the foundation over and sew on the printed line. Fold the strip open and press. Trim the seam allowance to 1/4 inch. Repeat for all four sides.
Tip: Always press each strip open before adding the next — skipping this causes cumulative inaccuracy.
Place corner strips at 45-degree angles across each corner of the center. Sew on the foundation lines, trim, and press open. These diagonal strips create the signature pineapple radiating effect.
Tip: Trim aggressively with the Add-A-Quarter ruler to keep bulk manageable.
Alternate between side strips and corner strips for rounds 2 through 6. Each round extends the block outward. Maintain consistent seam allowances and press each strip before proceeding. The block grows concentrically.
Tip: Work in a consistent rotation (clockwise or counterclockwise) around the block for each round.
Fill the four outer corners with triangles cut from squares to complete the square shape of the block. Remove all paper foundations carefully. Press the completed block and trim to 14.5" x 14.5".
Tip: Remove papers by tearing gently along the stitching lines — tweezers help with small pieces.
See how this traditional pattern looks in different color combinations.
Straight set of 9 blocks (3x3) for a wall hanging
16 blocks (4x4) with no sashing for a dramatic lap quilt
Alternating with plain squares for a light-and-shadow effect