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No. 7 Compass Bloom - Free Table Runner Pattern

Looking for a table runner that's colorful, eye-catching, and a little more challenging than a beginner project? This Compass Bloom Table Runner features four striking quilt blocks connected with simple sashing and finished with clean double borders. It's a wonderful weekend project if you enjoy precise piecing and bold geometric designs.

The pattern includes cutting instructions, step-by-step diagrams, and a printable PDF you can download for free.



Why I Designed This Table Runner

This table runner features Compass Bloom, one of the blocks from my 10" quilt block series. It was actually one of the most challenging blocks I've designed.

I went through several versions before I was happy with this final one. My goal from the beginning was clear: create a block that looks intricate but can be sewn with fewer matching points, no paper piecing, and no Y-seams. Every redesign was about making the construction easier without losing the overall look.

To be honest, I'm still not completely satisfied with the design—designers rarely are! But I think this version strikes a good balance between appearance and sewability. It keeps the bold compass-like effect while making the piecing much more approachable than my earlier versions.

I hope you'll enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed (and occasionally struggled with!) designing it.


Finished Size

Approximately 17½" × 52"

The table runner uses:

  • 4 Compass Bloom quilt blocks

  • Three sashing strips

  • Double borders


Skill Level

Intermediate

This pattern is suitable for quilters who are comfortable with:

  • Accurate ¼" seam allowances

  • Half-square triangles

  • Flying Geese

  • Careful matching of points

  • No paper piecing or Y-seams are required.


Fabric Recommendations

This block works best when you use fabrics with good value contrast.

I recommend:

  • Light background fabric

  • Medium-value fabrics for the inner star

  • Dark fabrics to create depth

  • One or two accent colors to make the petals stand out

Small-scale prints, batiks, and solids all work beautifully.


Amazon Affiliate Disclosure:

Some of the links on this page are Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Your support helps me continue creating free quilt patterns and tutorials.

Thank you!




Download the Free PDF Pattern


Click below to download the printable PDF pattern. ⬇️


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Tips for Success

  • Please read through the entire pattern before you begin sewing.

  • Sew with an accurate ¼" seam allowance throughout.

  • Press carefully after each step to keep the block flat.

  • Trim units before assembly whenever the pattern instructs.

  • Starch your fabric before cutting if you find bias edges difficult to handle.

  • Don't worry if a few tiny corners disappear into the seam allowance—that's part of the design.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a beginner pattern?

It is better suited for adventurous beginners or intermediate quilters. If you've already made a few quilt blocks with Flying Geese and half-square triangles, you should be comfortable with this project.

Do I need special rulers?

No. A standard quilting ruler works perfectly, although an HST trimming ruler can speed up trimming.

Can I make a full quilt using this block?

Absolutely! The block repeats beautifully and can easily be expanded into a throw or bed quilt.

Can I use scraps?

Yes! This block is a great scrap-friendly design. Just maintain strong light, medium, and dark value contrast.


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