Traditional pattern, mid-to-late 1800s, public domain
A kaleidoscopic block created by paper piecing radiating wedge-shaped sections from a central point, forming a web-like pattern of concentric rings. The design uses fabric strips of increasing width within each wedge to build a mesmerizing spiral effect.
The Spider Web block dates to the mid-to-late 1800s when string quilting and strip piecing were common methods for using up fabric scraps. The radial design mimics the structure of an orb-weaver spider's web, with its concentric rings and radiating spokes.
Spider Web quilts were a popular form of utilitarian scrap quilt, often made from dress-making remnants, shirt fabrics, and other household scraps. The design was democratic — it could look equally stunning in humble cotton prints or fine silks. It was a staple pattern in quilting bees where participants would trade fabric strips.
Also known as: Spiderweb, Web, String Star, Kaleidoscope
finished Block Size
16 inches
seam Allowance
1/4 inch
grid Basis
8 identical wedge sections radiating from center, each subdivided into 5-6 concentric strip rings
units Required
8 paper-pieced wedge sections, each containing 5-6 fabric strips of increasing width
All measurements include 1/4" seam allowance unless noted.
| Piece | Fabric | Cut Size | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wedge center strip (Ring 1) | Navy | 1.5" x 3" | 8 | Smallest strip; center of each wedge |
| Ring 2 strip | Gold | 1.75" x 4.5" | 8 | Cut oversized for paper piecing |
| Ring 3 strip | Light gray | 2" x 6" | 8 | Cut oversized for paper piecing |
| Ring 4 strip | Gold | 2.25" x 7.5" | 8 | Cut oversized for paper piecing |
| Ring 5 strip | Light gray | 2.5" x 9" | 8 | Cut oversized for paper piecing |
| Ring 6 (outer) strip | Navy | 3" x 10.5" | 8 | Outermost ring; cut oversized |
Print or trace 8 identical wedge-shaped paper foundations. Each wedge is 1/8 of the full circle (45 degrees). The foundation shows concentric strip lines numbered from center (1) outward (6). Verify all 8 foundations are identical in size.
Tip: Print on lightweight paper and hold two copies up to a light to verify they match exactly.
Place the Ring 1 (center) strip right side up over the center section on the unprinted side. Place the Ring 2 strip right sides together, aligning raw edges. Flip to the printed side and sew on the line between sections 1 and 2. Fold open, press, and trim. Continue outward through all 6 rings.
Tip: Use a short stitch length (1.5mm) and an open-toe foot for visibility on the foundation lines.
Repeat the paper-piecing process for all 8 wedge sections, maintaining identical color placement in each. Trim each wedge to the exact outer line of the foundation, leaving 1/4-inch seam allowance on all sides.
Tip: Batch each ring across all 8 wedges — sew Ring 2 on all 8, then Ring 3 on all 8, etc., for consistency.
Sew two wedges together along their long straight edges, matching the concentric ring seams precisely. Press seam open. Join pairs to create two halves of 4 wedges each.
Tip: Pin at every ring seam intersection for accurate alignment across the join.
Sew the two halves together, matching all ring seams and the center point. All 8 wedge seams should converge cleanly at the center. Press the center seam open and the entire block from the front.
Tip: The center convergence of 8 seams creates significant bulk — press seams open and consider trimming seam allowances to 1/8 inch at the center only.
Carefully tear away all paper foundations along the stitching lines. Press the completed block and square to 16.5" x 16.5" including seam allowances. The concentric rings should form perfect circles radiating from the center.
Tip: Use tweezers for small paper pieces trapped under stitching near the center.
See how this traditional pattern looks in different color combinations.
Straight set of 4 blocks (2x2) for a wall hanging with kaleidoscope effect
Single block as a pillow top or mini quilt
Nine blocks (3x3) with thin sashing for a lap quilt