There’s a moment in quilting when things start to click. You stop viewing quilts as complicated, overwhelming designs and begin seeing them as a collection of simple, repeatable units. Flying geese is one of those units. And once you understand it, it opens up so many possibilities.
What Are Flying Geese?
Flying geese are triangular units that form a “V” shape in the center, moving in one direction.
You’ll find them everywhere:
- In borders that create movement
- In star blocks that require sharp points
- In sashing that unites a quilt
- And in bold, modern layouts like chevrons.
Experienced quilters know how to break those designs down. That’s what I’m sharing with you today.
The Stitch-and-Flip Method
There are several ways to make flying geese, but if you’re new to quilting, the stitch-and-flip method is one of the best options to start with. It’s simple and easy to understand.
You’ll sew a square to each side of the rectangle along the diagonal to form the shape. The process graphic below shows just how straightforward it is.
Tips for Perfect Flying Geese
If your flying geese appear a bit wonky, you’re not alone. This is one of those skills where small tweaks can make a big difference.
Here are a few that matter most:
Mark your stitching lines
It might feel like an extra step, but it dramatically improves accuracy when you're still learning.
Sew just a thread’s width away from the line
This tiny adjustment accounts for the fold and keeps your units from coming out too small.
Check before you press
After flipping your triangle, make sure it fully covers the corner. A quick finger press first can save a lot of frustration.
Trim your dog ears
It’s another extra step that doesn’t seem like it does much, but it can help reduce bulk in your seams as you start piecing more blocks together.
Why Flying Geese Are a Skill Worth Learning
Flying geese appear repeatedly in quilting. Becoming comfortable making them will make it easier to follow patterns and boost your confidence to try new designs. It’s a skill that levels up your quilting experience.
Inside the Skill Builder Quilt-Along
In Week 3 of the Skill Builder Quilt Along, we practice creating flying geese using the stitch and flip method. It’s a simple technique that yields beautiful results and boosts confidence in piecing.
Each week of the QAL focuses on a different core quilting skill, helping you gradually develop techniques that make future quilts easier and more enjoyable to sew.
And by the end, you’ll have a finished quilt top that showcases everything you’ve learned along the way. It’s not too late to join us! Learn more about the Skill Builder QAL to see if it’s right for you.
