Traditional / Public Domain — named for the split-rail fences of the American frontier
Three or four strips sewn together and then alternated in direction to create a woven, zigzag pattern that recalls split-rail fences across the American countryside. One of the simplest blocks with maximum visual impact.
Named for the zigzag split-rail fences built by American settlers, this pattern has been documented since at least the mid-1800s. Abraham Lincoln was famous for splitting rails as a young man, and the pattern evokes that era of westward expansion.
The Rail Fence was a favorite of pioneer quilters because it used long strips efficiently — ideal for cutting from worn clothing or narrow fabric remnants. Its simplicity made it a popular choice for utility quilts made quickly for growing families heading west.
Also known as: Split Rail, Fence Row, Roman Stripe (diagonal variation)
finished Block Size
12"
seam Allowance
1/4"
grid Basis
3 strips per block
units Required
3 strips sewn and crosscut
All measurements include 1/4" seam allowance unless noted.
| Piece | Fabric | Cut Size | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strip A | Dark | 4 1/2" x 12 1/2" | 1 | Cut on grain |
| Strip B | Medium | 4 1/2" x 12 1/2" | 1 | Cut on grain |
| Strip C | Light | 4 1/2" x 12 1/2" | 1 | Cut on grain |
Cut one 4 1/2" x 12 1/2" strip from each of your three fabrics. For multiple blocks, cut WOF (width of fabric) strips at 4 1/2" wide and crosscut later.
Tip: Jelly roll strips (2 1/2" wide) work perfectly for a smaller Rail Fence block — just sew 5 strips together.
Sew Strip A to Strip B, right sides together, with a 1/4" seam along the long edge. Then sew Strip C to the other side of Strip B. Press seams in one direction.
Tip: Alternate sewing direction (top to bottom, then bottom to top) to prevent the strip set from curving.
Press all seams toward the darkest fabric. The strip set should be flat with no pleats at the seam lines.
Trim to exactly 12 1/2" square. If making multiple blocks from long strip sets, crosscut at 12 1/2" intervals.
Alternate block orientation: Block 1 has vertical strips, Block 2 has horizontal strips. This creates the signature zigzag Rail Fence pattern across the quilt.
Join blocks in rows with 1/4" seams. Press row seams in alternating directions. Join rows and press.
See how this traditional pattern looks in different color combinations.
Classic zigzag — alternate horizontal and vertical blocks
Barn raising — rotate blocks to create concentric diamonds
Streak of lightning — all blocks tilted the same way in each row, alternating row direction