What are layer cakes in quilting? In the quilting and sewing world, layer cakes are simply what we call precut 10” fabric squares! The term “Layer Cake” was coined by Moda Fabrics, but it is also sometimes used to describe any 10x10 precut quilt squares and 10” fabric squares.
Many fabric manufacturers have their own creative names for these awesome precut fabrics such as 10 inch stackers, 10 Karat Crystals, 10” Tiles - the list goes on. Nevertheless, “layer cake” tends to be more commonly used among quilters. You’ve probably seen a smaller version of layer cakes before called “Charm Packs.” The difference between these two precuts is simply the size, with charm packs measuring 5” x 5”, and fabric layer cakes measuring 10” x 10”.
You may be wondering about how much fabric is in a layer cake. Most precut layer cakes and layer cake fabric bundles include 42 precut fabric squares, but sometimes the amount of fabric varies depending on the manufacturer. When you purchase layer cakes for quilting, you can get straight to sewing - no need to spend your valuable time measuring and cutting!
For quilters who haven’t sewn with layer cake fabrics and are curious about how large a quilt they can make, we have the answer for you! Typically, (not including borders) a single pack of quilt layer cake squares is enough to make a twin quilt. When you purchase layer cakes, you'll need more to make a larger quilt. For instance, two layer cakes will make a queen quilt and 3 layer cakes will usually make a king-sized quilt. However, we do recommend checking the supplies list before purchasing fabric, as layer cake quilt patterns can vary, depending on the amount of background, sashing, and borders the design includes.
What kind of quilt can you make with a layer cake? We have hundreds of 10" square patterns to make easy layer cake quilts, all of which come with detailed instructions and are accompanied by totally FREE online layer cake quilt tutorials so they’re easy to follow. The difficulty level of quilt patterns using layer cakes can depend on a few different factors, like piecing method or the complexity of the quilt block.
If you’re just starting out and want something simple, patchwork quilt patterns are a good place to start! Patchwork is usually as easy as sewing squares together, which is exactly what you can do with precut quilt patterns like layer cake patterns. We have hundreds of easy layer cake quilt patterns to choose from, from traditional quilting patterns to modern quilt patterns using 10 inch fabric squares.
So, what is the easiest Layer Cake pattern for a beginner? There are so many quilt patterns using layer cakes to choose from, but we generally recommend starting with 10" square patterns in the patchwork style. These types of layer cake patterns are great for new quilters because even though they’re easy to make, they always look beautiful and professional!
We also have plenty of layer cake patterns to make more than just quilts! Home decor like quilted table runners, placemats, throw pillows, placemats, mug rugs, and coasters can all be made with quilting layer cakes. Wall hangings and tote bags are other popular choices, but the possibilities are truly endless when it comes to quilting layer cakes.
Explore the possibilities with our Layer Cake Quilting Tutorials Page, or watch Jenny’s free layer cake quilt tutorial below to get inspired!
Shop our wide selection of precut fabric and quilt patterns using layer cakes with confidence. You can also browse our collection of layer cake quilt pattern free tutorials on YouTube. Stitch something sweet with 10" square patterns!