Traditional pattern, late 1800s, public domain
An interlocking curved-piece design that creates overlapping circles and sinuous pathways when blocks are assembled. Each block contains only two curved shapes, but the interplay between blocks generates an illusion of complex interlocking rings and flowing trails.
The Winding Ways pattern emerged in the late 1800s as quilters explored increasingly sophisticated curved-piecing techniques. It is closely related to the broader family of 'Robbing Peter to Pay Paul' designs, where the same two shapes trade positive and negative space.
Winding Ways symbolized life's unpredictable journey and was often given as a gift to someone embarking on a new chapter — a bride, a graduate, or a family moving westward. The interlocking design represents how individual lives weave together in community.
Also known as: Winding Walk, Four Leaf Clover, Rob Peter to Pay Paul Variation
finished Block Size
10 inches
seam Allowance
1/4 inch
grid Basis
Two curved templates that interlock — a convex oval and a concave frame; 4 of each per block
units Required
4 convex oval pieces and 4 concave frame pieces per block, alternating in two colors
All measurements include 1/4" seam allowance unless noted.
| Piece | Fabric | Cut Size | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Convex oval (template A) | Purple | 6" x 6" (use template) | 4 | Football-shaped piece with convex curves on all sides |
| Concave frame (template B) | Green | 6" x 6" (use template) | 4 | Square frame piece with concave curve on one side |
| Convex oval (template A) | Green | 6" x 6" (use template) | 4 | For adjacent blocks — alternate colorway |
| Concave frame (template B) | Purple | 6" x 6" (use template) | 4 | For adjacent blocks — alternate colorway |
Using the Winding Ways templates, cut 4 convex oval pieces from purple and 4 concave frame pieces from green for the first block. For the alternate block, reverse the colors. Mark the center point of every curved edge with a clip or dot.
Tip: Cut a single layer at a time for curved templates — folding fabric causes inaccuracy.
Pin a convex oval piece to a concave frame piece, matching center clips and endpoints. The convex piece eases into the concave curve. Sew with a 1/4-inch seam, working slowly around the curve. Press seam toward the concave piece. Make 4 quarter units.
Tip: Sew with the concave piece on top so you can see the curve and control easing.
Sew two quarter units together to form a half-block, matching the curved seam intersections. This join also involves a curved seam where the ovals from adjacent quarters meet. Press seam open.
Tip: Pin at the seam intersection and at both ends before easing the rest of the curve.
Sew the two half-blocks together to complete the full block. This final seam runs through the center of the block and requires careful matching of all seam intersections. Press the center seam open.
Tip: Use a stiletto to hold intersections in alignment as they pass under the presser foot.
Press the completed block from the front, using starch to stabilize the curved seams. Square to 10.5" x 10.5" including seam allowances. All curves should lie flat without puckering.
Tip: If curves pucker, clip the seam allowance sparingly and re-press with steam.
The true magic of Winding Ways appears when multiple blocks are placed together. Arrange blocks with alternating colorways so that the circles and pathways emerge across block boundaries. Verify the design on a design wall before sewing blocks together.
See how this traditional pattern looks in different color combinations.
4x5 block arrangement alternating colorways for a lap quilt
6x7 blocks for a twin-size quilt with continuous pathways
2x2 arrangement as a pillow top or mini quilt