For National Quilting Day, we look back at a pattern-centric and colorful art form that, while not immediately resonating as influential to design, has shown up in surprising ways in the modern day. These Americana artworks have a subtle but unique presence throughout our culture— popping up throughout architecture, interior design, and tilework. We will also learn the unique names and lineage of these patterns, so that next time you spy an isometric square illusion, you’ll know you're actually looking at the roots of the Tumbling Block. Read on to discover the connection between quilting and modern interior design, and thank quilters for their contribution to these colorful spaces.

Rocky Mountain Chain

This 19th-century pattern is inspired by the pioneers who crossed the Rocky Mountain Range in their travels towards the western end of the United States. The sharply-pointed triangles of this block, reimagined in tile form in this modern rustic kitchen, resemble those incredible and formidable peaks.

Want an in-depth look at how this pattern comes together? Learn more about the Rocky Mountain Chain Block here.

Rising Sun

Also referred to as the “Starburst” or “Sunflower” pattern, this many-pointed block has seen many variations since its beginnings in the mid 19th century. This version of the pattern finds its new home in a playful plant-filled kitchen, its orange and blue bursts a perfect companion to the robin’s egg cabinets and bright, sunny walls.

Want an in-depth look at how this pattern comes together? Learn more about the Sunflower Quilt Block here.

Cathedral Window

This aptly-named pattern stems from the design of historic church and cathedral stained glass windows, and first became popular during the Great Depression era. Cathedral Window patterns were known for the unique quilting methods used to produce them, and now find themselves right at home in Art Deco and mid-century spaces.

Want an in-depth look at how this pattern comes together? Learn more about the Cathedral Window Quilt Block here.

Six Pointed Star

As soon as commercial fabric became available in America in the 1830’s, star-patterned quilts became the foremost trend. Many such star patterns persist today as the Lone Star, Morning Star, Star of Bethlehem, et cetera, but this simple six-point diamond pattern sees the most prevalence in modern iterations.

Want an in-depth look at how this pattern comes together? Learn more about the Six Pointed Star Quilt Block here.

Tumbling Block

As one of the most recognizable quilt patterns, this three-dimensional marvel actually dates as far back as Ancient Greece where it was seen in tile design. Today this trendy pattern persists in almost all mediums, and has even returned to its artful tile roots in contemporary homes.

Want an in-depth look at how this pattern comes together? Learn more about the Tumbling Block Quilt Block here.

Flying Geese

This pattern gets its name from the direction-driven triangles that it consists of, resembling a goose in flight. Legends about it also being symbol for those who fled to safety in the Underground Railroad of the 1800’s persist to this day. In modern design, these energetic triangles are recreated into a freeform tile flock of geese in flight.

Want an in-depth look at how this pattern comes together? Learn more about the Flying Geese Quilt Block here.

Want to see more examples of the patterns that exist all around us? Check out our Pinterest board below that details all the ways that classic quilt patterns persist today.