Bento Box Block Pattern

Quilting is a timeless craft that weaves together artistry, tradition, and creativity. Among the myriad of quilting patterns, the Bento Box block stands out as a versatile and visually striking design. Inspired by the traditional Japanese lunch boxes, this pattern offers quilters a canvas for endless possibilities. Let’s delve into the beauty and versatility of the Bento Box block pattern.

Origins and Inspiration: The Bento Box block pattern draws its inspiration from the Japanese bento boxes, which are compartmentalized containers used for serving meals. These boxes typically feature neatly arranged compartments holding various food items, creating an aesthetic that is both practical and visually appealing. Quilters have translated this concept into fabric, creating blocks that mimic the structured layout of a bento box.

Design Elements: At its core, the Bento Box block pattern consists of a central square surrounded by strips of fabric, reminiscent of the compartments in a bento box. The arrangement of these strips can vary, allowing for endless design possibilities. Quilters can experiment with different color combinations, fabric textures, and strip widths to achieve diverse effects.

One of the key strengths of the Bento Box block pattern is its versatility in layout. Quilters can arrange multiple blocks in different configurations to create unique quilts. Whether it’s a simple straight set layout, a staggered design, or a more intricate arrangement like a barn raising layout, the Bento Box blocks adapt effortlessly to various quilting projects.

Light Fabric Requirements:

• (2) Strips measuring 2 1/2 inches by 5 1/4 inches (for strip piecing)
• (4) Strips measuring 2 1/2 inches by 4 1/2 inches
• (2) Strips measuring 2 1/2 inches by 6 1/2 inches

Dark, Cool Shaded Fabric (Blue) Requirements:

• (1) Strip measuring 2 1/2 inches by 5 1/4 inches (for strip piecing)
• (2) Strips measuring 2 1/2 inches by 4 1/2 inches
• (2) Strips measuring 2 1/2 inches by 6 1/2 inches

Dark, Warm Shaded Fabric (Magenta) Requirements:

• (1) Strip measuring 2 1/2 inches by 5 1/4 inches (for strip piecing)
• (2) Strips measuring 2 1/2 inches by 4 1/2 inches

Assembly Instructions for Block Corners:

1. Begin by creating one block corner measuring 6 1/2 inches by 6 1/2 inches.
2. Stitch a 2 1/2-inch by 5 1/4-inch light-colored strip lengthwise to a magenta strip of the same size. Press the seam allowance towards the magenta strip.
3. Square up one end of the strip set and cut two 2 1/2-inch segments from it.
4. Take one segment (figure 1) and a 2 1/2-inch by 4 1/2-inch magenta rectangle. Sew the magenta strip to the top of the segment, aligning the magenta portion to the left (figures 2 and 3). Press the seam allowance towards the magenta rectangle.
5. Align a 2 1/2-inch by 4 1/2-inch light strip vertically to the left of the unit (figure 4). Sew them together and press the seam allowance towards the magenta areas.
6. Stitch a 2 1/2-inch by 6 1/2-inch light strip to the top of the partially complete patchwork (figures 5 and 6). Press the seam allowance towards the magenta areas.
7. Duplicate this block corner to create a second identical one.
8. Once comfortable with the process, use chain piecing for efficient assembly.

Assembly of Remaining Bento Box Corners:

1. Sew another strip set using the 2 1/2-inch by 5 1/4-inch blue and light-colored strips. Square up one end and cut two 2 1/2-inch segments from it (figure 7).
2. Stitch a 2 1/2-inch by 4 1/2-inch light rectangle to the top of the segment, with the blue portion in the lower left (figures 8 and 9). Press the seam allowance towards the blue and light-colored segment.
3. Sew a 2 1/2-inch by 4 1/2-inch blue rectangle to the right of the segment as shown (figure 10). Press the seam allowance towards the blue rectangle.
4. Stitch a 2 1/2-inch by 6 1/2-inch blue strip to the top of the unit and press the seam allowance towards the new strip. The unit should measure 6 1/2 inches by 6 1/2 inches.
5. Create one more blue and light-colored block corner.

Assembly of Bento Box Quilt Block:

1. Arrange the block corners into two horizontal rows.
2. Sew the two corners in each row together.
3. Press new seam allowances in adjoining rows in opposite directions and join the rows to complete the quilt block, which should measure 12 1/2 inches by 12 1/2 inches.

The Bento Box block pattern is a testament to the enduring appeal of quilting as both an art form and a practical craft. Its fusion of tradition and innovation makes it a beloved choice among quilters of all skill levels. Whether you’re drawn to its geometric precision or its potential for creative expression, the Bento Box block pattern invites quilters to explore new horizons and create quilts that are truly one-of-a-kind.