Bittersweet Quilt Pattern (Download)

The Bittersweet block is part of the 2026 Hand + Soul Block of the Month. Join as an Explorer and get this pattern for free with the included quarterly quilt patterns benefit.

About the design.

The Bittersweet quilt is inspired by the idea that all aspects of existence contain both yin (passive) and yang (active) energies, and that true balance comes from the dynamic interaction and harmony of these opposites, not the dominance of one over the other. The Bittersweet quilt block, with its diagonal symmetry of mirrored negatives, symbolizes the importance of embracing both the light and dark in life.

This simple and playful design is a quick project using traditional piecing with squares and half-square triangles (HSTs). The block also allows for playing with various overall designs, depending on how the blocks are oriented.

More about the Bittersweet quilt pattern.

• Skill Level: Confident Beginner

• Instructions for baby, throw, and king quilt sizes

• Two-tone color way, with tips for making a scrappy version

• Cutting diagrams help with efficient cutting and get you sewing sooner, with labels to help keep you organized

• Coloring sheet to help get you started, with sample mockups for inspiration; plus, plan your quilt on PreQuilt!

• Downloadable PDF

Materials & maker credits.

All fabrics in the quilts pictured are Art Gallery Fabrics.

Longarm quilting is by Gigi Thorsen using the Suzy Quilts Boho Birds pantograph by Sew Shabby Quilting and the Feathers and Triangles pantograph by The Dastardly Quilt Studio.