Puff Quilt Tutorial for Beginners

If you’re looking for a quilt project that’s as cozy as it is eye-catching, the Puff Quilt—also known as a biscuit quilt—is the perfect choice. With its soft, pillow-like texture and three-dimensional design, this quilt is a favorite for nurseries, lap blankets, and even pet beds. It’s ideal for using up fabric scraps and a fun departure from traditional flat quilting styles. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned quilter seeking a new technique, this tutorial will guide you through each step to create your own puff masterpiece.

What makes the puff quilt truly special is its delightful texture and cozy appearance. Unlike traditional flat quilts, this style features little “pillows” that create depth and softness in every block. It’s a technique that blends simplicity with a charming and plush result, making it perfect for crafters who love to try something unique and heartwarming. If you’re looking for a quilt that stands out and brings comfort, the puff quilt is a wonderful project to explore.

What Is a Puff Quilt?

A puff quilt is made by sewing together small squares of fabric that are filled with stuffing to create soft, puffy units. These puffs are then sewn together to form the full quilt top, which is layered with batting and backing like any traditional quilt. The result is a super soft, tactile blanket with dimension and charm.

Puff Quilt

Materials You’ll Need

• Fabric Squares (Top): 5″ x 5″ cotton pieces – variety of prints or solids

Puff Quilt Instructions

Step 1: Cut Your Fabric

For each puff, you’ll need:

• One 5” x 5” square for the top (decorative side)

• One 4” x 4” square for the bottom (this will be hidden)

Cut as many squares as needed depending on the size of your desired quilt. A baby-sized puff quilt may use around 100 puffs (10 rows of 10).

Step 2: Sew the Puffs

• Place a 5” square right side up and align a 4” square centered on the back.

• Starting at one corner, fold a small pleat in the larger square as you sew the edges together—this will create space for the puff.

• Sew three sides completely and leave the fourth side open for stuffing.

Step 3: Stuff and Close Each Puff

• Gently stuff each square with a small amount of fiberfill. Don’t overfill—puffs should be soft, not too tight.

• Once filled, fold the last side with a small pleat and sew it shut.

Step 4: Assemble the Quilt Top

• Arrange your puffs in rows. Pin and sew each puff to the next one using a ½” seam allowance.

• Work row by row, then sew the rows together to form the full top.

Step 5: Add Backing and Finish

• Lay your backing fabric right side down, place the puff top on it right side up. Optionally, add a layer of batting in between for extra warmth.

• Quilt around the edges and secure any areas needed.

• Bind the quilt edges using your favorite method (machine binding or hand-stitched binding).

Tips for Success

• Use consistent seam allowances so your puffs align neatly.

• Choose a thin, breathable backing fabric so the quilt doesn’t get too bulky.

• Try alternating colors for a checkerboard or rainbow look!

Ready to Start Your Puff Quilt?

To make your quilting journey even easier, I’ve prepared two downloadable PDFs. The first includes the step-by-step Puff Quilt tutorial, and the second provides a printable pattern layout and fabric cutting guide. Whether you’re a beginner or looking for a fun new project, these resources will help you create a beautiful puff quilt from start to finish.

Download the Puff Quilt Pattern PDF

Download the free Puff Quilt Pattern PDF below for a printable version of the step-by-step instructions and fabric requirements!

Download the Puff Quilt Pattern PDF

Perfect For Gifting or Snuggling

The puff quilt isn’t just fun to make—it’s also practical and cherished by recipients of all ages. Its plush texture makes it perfect for baby blankets, couch throws, and even play mats. Plus, it’s a great project for showcasing your favorite fabric scraps and prints in a creative way.