How big is it?
This is a 9-inch block.
An Old Maid's Puzzle block is really just a four-patch layout. After cutting your fabric, triangles are joined to piece four sub-blocks which, joined together, form the complete block. Although Old Maid's Puzzle pieces fairly quickly, it is important to double check the positioning of your pieces before stitching.
Four fabrics are typically used for this block, white and three colors. Look for complimentary colors and prints.
Cutting - Old Maid's Puzzle works up very quickly with rotary cutting.
Assembling components - An Old Maid's Puzzle block includes squares formed by combining right triangles. These triangle-square pairs should be stitched with a quarter-inch seam allowance.
Assembling the four-patch units - While many blocks assemble row-by-row, Old Maid's Puzzle assembles like a four-patch instead. There are two unique patches used in this block. The key to good results is paying attention to the orientation of your triangles. Compare your layout with the pattern before sewing.
Assembling the block - Block assembly involves piecing the four components made in the last step. It is a straight-forward process, but once again, positioning is important.
Great - now that I've got it, what do I do with it?
Old Maid's Puzzle blocks create a very interesting geometric pattern when placed together. In this example layout, blocks are placed next to each other to create an attractive frame for a few solid white blocks. Because a number of colors are used in a single block, it is important that your border echo fabrics used in the block to give the design a more polished look.
Old Maid's Puzzle blocks may also be alternated with solid blocks for a clean, colorful layout. In this sample, solid blocks of the green fabric from the design are used. In addition to creating an uncluttered feel, these solid blocks provide a wonderful opportunity to showcase intricate stitching.
More ideas to consider
These blocks can even be used to create a frame around a center of solid fabric. The complex movement of triangles creates a wonderful border to present larger quilting motifs.
Related : More Free Block Patterns