< Workshops Workshop: 09 — Pineapple Express

The pineapple has long been a symbol of hospitality, and this cheerful quilt offers a warm welcome in any home. Using Jean’s organized, accurate approach, you will build Pineapple blocks from a central square outward—without paper foundations to tear away.

Make the design traditional or modern, simple or complex, and as large or small as you wish. A Pineapple ruler is helpful, but Jean will discuss several ruler options and show you how careful trimming keeps every round crisp and accurate. Students who prefer a smaller project may make a 20″ pillow.

What You’ll Learn

  • Accurate Pineapple-block construction
  • Color and value placement for a strong design
  • Efficient trimming with several ruler options
  • How to expand the block into a pillow or quilt

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Student Inspiration

Lynn Crawford began with nine blocks, expanded her project to 25, and completed it with an appliqué border and variegated piping—a wonderful example of how this design can grow with your imagination.

Supply List:

  • Pineapple Express

    The pineapple quilt is all about precision and for this I prefer to use a ruler designed for making this block. Below are three options, you do not need all three. Please bring one of these to help you make this beautiful quilt.

    • Sewing Machine in good working order with 1/4" foot if you have one
    • Basic Sewing tools and supplies
    • Rotary Knife with new blade! and mat
    • Contrasting Thread that can be seen on the backside of your block
    • Stash fabric
    • Option 1: Lynda Milligan & Nancy Smith Pineapple Ruler - if you have one
    • Option 2: Gyleen Fitzgerald also has a Pineapple Ruler
    • Option 3: Creative Grids Pineapple Trim Tool #cgrjaw3
    • If you don't have a Pineapple ruler, we may be able to use an Omnigrid 12-1/2" square ruler
    • Option 4: June Tailor’s Shape Cut JT-796 Ruler and red or orange Sharpie pen