The Bear Tracks Quilt is a charming and simple variation of the classic Bear Paw block—perfect for beginners exploring traditional patchwork styles. If you’re just starting out and want a satisfying quilt block with bold shapes and cozy vibes, this pattern is a great place to start.
What Is the Bear Tracks Block?
The Bear Tracks block is a variation of the four-patch quilt block. It’s made up of four smaller “paw” units and is part of a sampler quilt project. Each paw is constructed using half-square triangles and solid squares, stitched together in a way that mimics the footprint of a bear.
This block finishes at 12 inches (12.5″ unfinished), making it easy to combine into larger quilt tops or use on its own as a mini project like a pillow or wall hanging.
Materials You’ll Need
-
Printed cotton fabric (2 contrasting colors)
-
Background fabric
-
Triangle paper (2” grid)
-
Basic quilting tools: rotary cutter, mat, ruler, sewing machine, thread, pins, iron
Cutting Guide
-
(2) 4.5″ squares of each coordinating fabric
-
(1) 4.5″ background square
-
(1) 6.5″ square of each coordinating fabric
-
(2) 6.5″ squares of background fabric
Instructions Overview
-
Prepare Half-Square Triangles (HSTs)
Pair the 6.5″ background and coordinating squares, layer with triangle paper, stitch along the lines, cut, and press open. You’ll end up with multiple 2.5″ unfinished triangle units. -
Build the Paw Units
Each paw includes:-
Two triangle units stitched together
-
A 4.5″ square of coordinating fabric
-
One triangle block with background square in the corner
-
-
Assemble the Block
Combine four paw units, paying close attention to orientation, to complete the full Bear Tracks block.
Suggested Quilt Layout
The full Bear Tracks Quilt features:
-
20 Bear Paw blocks (5 rows of 4)
-
1″ finished sashing and inner borders
-
8″ finished outer borders
Finished size: 69″ x 82″
You can adjust the size by adding more blocks or changing the border widths.
Free PDF Download
📥 Click here to download the Bear Tracks Quilt Pattern PDF
Conclusion
The Bear Tracks Quilt is a wonderful project for beginners who want to explore classic quilt blocks with a bold and rustic twist. With easy-to-follow steps and a timeless design, it’s a pattern you’ll enjoy making again and again. Happy quilting! 🧵🐾
