Rail Fence quilt patterns are a staple in the quilting world, celebrated for their simplicity and versatility. Originating from early American quilting traditions, these patterns consist of horizontal or vertical strips that mimic the rustic look of old rail fences, making them perfect for beginners and seasoned quilters alike.
The Rail Fence design allows for playful use of color and texture, offering endless possibilities for customization.
Free Rail Fence Quilt Patterns – Top Picks
1. Free Quilt Pattern: Rainbow Rail Fence Quilt

The Rainbow Rail Fence Quilt is a free quilt tutorial designed by Cheryl Brickey of Meadow Mist Designs for Bear Creek Quilting Company. In this quilt project, she uses the Sunrise Palette and a Sunset Palette from the Kona Cotton Roll-Ups fabric collection by Robert Kaufman Fabrics.
A quick and beginner friendly rail fence quilt pattern with a twist.
2. Free Quilt Pattern: Simple Stripes Quilt

The Simple Stripes Quilt is another version of the classic rail fence quilt. This is a free quilt tutorial designed by Amy Smart of Diary of a Quilter featuring the Nest fabric collection by Valori Wells for Free Spirit. This is a beginner-friendly quilt where you can use your scraps.
This quilt project is made of 16 blocks for a baby quilt, however, you can make more blocks to make a bigger quilt.
An adorable baby quilt pattern that is perfect for a baby shower gift or can be an addition to your little one’s nursery room. This Split Rail Fence Baby Quilt is a different version of the Rail Fence Quilt.
It looks like a basket weave too. Just continue repeating the pattern of the Split Rail Fence to make a larger quilt.
If you’re looking to do something to pass the time, this beginner-friendly quilt will definitely hoard all your attention! This rail fence quilt block pattern is easy to follow and if you have any kind of fabrics that don’t have much use anymore, you can use those to recreate this one.
Just recreating this pattern design to pass the time will ultimately give you a beautiful quilt to use! The finished quilt block size measures 8 inches x 8 inches.
Want to capture the staggering beauty of a rainbow? Well, you can easily capture it through this charming quilt! Employing different sets of colors, it gives off an illusion of a rainbow coming out after a rain!
The patterns are easy to recreate, so don’t be bothered if you’re just a beginner quilter because you can easily top this off! The finished size measures 53 inches x 65 inches.
Who doesn’t love a mosaic wall of pure handmade quilts? This quilt is designed by Rose Ann Cook and is perfect for draping across your walls as your wall-hanging design!
The colors are very much going to catch everyone’s eyes with their prominent and bold hues. Quilters of all levels will definitely adore replicating this one. The finished size measures 82 inches square.
For all color green lovers out there, this quilt block pattern by Create with Claudia is a must-have accessory in your lives! Look at the dazzling and sensational fusion of the different hues of green! Don’t you just love to stare at this beguiling knockout of a quilt?
You can easily transform your boring scrap fabrics into fabulous ones! The finished block measures 8 inches square. Join the blocks together to make a table runner, a throw, or a full-size quilt.
8. Free Quilt Pattern: Jelly Roll Rail Fence

Want to give something memorable to your future nephews and nieces? This beginner-friendly quilt by Amanda Castor of Material Girl Quilts will be the answer to that question!
With its bubbling and comforting appearance, it exudes lightness and buoyancy that will transform their room merrily! It has two finished sizes: 72 inches x 78 inches and 48 inches x 54 inches.
Create the stunning Teresa’s Scrappy Rail Fence Quilt by the talented Teresa from Bay Window Quilt Shop. Suitable for quilters of all skill levels, this pattern allows you to unleash your creativity. Gather 104 strips measuring 2″ x 22″ and let your imagination soar.
No need to adhere to a specific color scheme—Teresa encourages freedom in fabric selection. The outcome? A vibrant and controlled scrappy quilt that’s bound to impress.
If you want to have a stylish quilting pattern that also shows your love for the country, then the RWB Rail Fence is just what you’re looking for! Inspired by the Autumn Leaves quilt, this rail fence design features scattered pieced blocks and stars in different positions for a one-of-a-kind look.
With its red, white, and blue color scheme, this quilt is perfect for patriotic holidays or for anyone who holds a deep appreciation for America’s spirit and heritage.
11. Free Quilt Pattern: Two Rail Fence

Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting Two Rail Fence quilt, skillfully crafted by Mary Johnson of Mary Quilts. This beautiful project measuring 56 inches x 72 inches, can be easily expanded by adding more blocks. Offering a moderate level of difficulty, it entices quilters of all expertise seeking a gratifying project.
Featuring a distinctive pieced border measuring 4.5 inches in various lengths and a striking inner red border of 1.25 inches, the quilt’s center comes alive with a vibrant red zigzag flange. The meticulous design and meticulous attention to detail make the Two Rail Fence a free quilt pattern a favorite among quilters.
12. Free Quilt Pattern: Modern Rail Fence

The Modern Rail Fence Quilt Pattern by Donna Jordan for Jordan Fabrics measures 58″ x 65″ and is designed to be Jelly Roll friendly. This contemporary take on the classic rail fence design is straightforward, with clear-cutting and sewing instructions that make it accessible for quilters of all skill levels.
Ideal for those looking to craft a modern quilt with clean lines and a fresh aesthetic, this pattern allows for efficient use of Jelly Rolls, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable quilting experience.
13. Free Quilt Pattern: Rail Fence Ripple

The Rail Fence Ripple Quilt Pattern, designed by Becky Cogan of Need’l Love for American Patchwork & Quilting, measures 54 1⁄2″ × 72 1⁄2″. This pattern puts a creative twist on the traditional rail fence design by incorporating a ripple effect that adds movement and interest to the quilt.
Perfect for quilters looking to explore variations on classic designs, this pattern offers a fresh take on an old favorite, making it an engaging project that results in a dynamic and visually appealing quilt.
14. Free Quilt Pattern: Pinwheel Rail Fence Modification

The Pinwheel Rail Fence Modification is a free quilt pattern by Donna Jordan for Jordan Fabrics, measuring 48 inches x 64 inches. This pattern enhances the classic rail fence design by incorporating charming pinwheels along its edges, blending traditional elements with playful twists to create a captivating visual dynamic.
This versatile quilt adds creativity and charm to any setting and is Ideal for a picnic blanket on outdoor adventures or as a stylish tabletop accent for indoor gatherings. It’s a perfect addition to your quilting repertoire, offering a delightful mix of classic and whimsical styles.
15. Free Quilt Pattern: Mini Rail Fence Table Runner

The Mini Rail Fence Table Runner Quilt Pattern by Donna Jordan for Jordan Fabrics features a finished size of 20″ x 50″. This compact and stylish design takes the traditional rail fence pattern and adapts it into a charming table runner, perfect for adding a touch of handmade elegance to your home decor.
With its manageable size and classic design, this pattern is ideal for quilters looking to create a quick and beautiful project that enhances any dining or coffee table setting.
BONUS Rail Fence Quilt Patterns For Sale from Online Shops
This quilt is so cute and adorable that it’s perfect for chilly summer nights if you want to go stargazing! It vibes with so much color that it will indefinitely bring a smile to your face.
It emanates so much positivity that it will become your comfort blanket! You will only need jelly rolls and layer cakes to recreate this one and not to mention that it is suited for all beginner quilters!
It has two sizes:
- Baby – 41 inches x 49 inches
- Lap – 48 inches x 65 inches
2. English Pathways Quilt Pattern (Downloadable Pattern For Sale)

Roses and chocolates are too common as Valentine’s gifts. Handmade quilts, on the other hand, sound more interesting, right? Brought to you by Kathy Blank, this stunning quilt will undoubtedly bring a smile to your lover’s smile!
You can easily replicate this design using fat quarters! It is suited for all beginner quilters to recreate. The finished size measures 78 ¾ inches x 78 ¾ inches.
3. Easy Rail Fence Quilt for Beginners (PDF Printable Pattern For Sale)

The Easy Rail Fence Quilt Pattern by Tara is a delightful introduction to quilting. It allows beginners to create a stunning, classic quilt. The design is beautifully simple, featuring alternating bands of vibrant coral and calming gray fabrics woven together to create a captivating visual rhythm.
The generous throw size (60″ x 70″) makes it perfect for snuggling up on the couch or adding a touch of warmth to your bedroom. With straightforward instructions and clear diagrams, you’ll be stitching up this cozy quilt in no time, building your confidence and enjoying the satisfaction of a handmade masterpiece.
The Rail Fence Quilt Block Pattern by Stacey Lee Creative is ideal for beginners. This quilt block pattern simplifies the traditional rail fence design, making it perfect for those new to quilting. It provides a straightforward introduction to piecing techniques and comes with a video tutorial to guide beginners through each step of the process.
This added visual aid is perfect for mastering the basics quickly, offering a rewarding first project or a quick task for more experienced quilters. It’s an excellent starting point for creating various projects and helping newcomers build a solid foundation in quilting basics.
The Strip-Easy Rail Fence Quilt Pattern by Patti’s Patchwork is tailored for beginners and utilizes STRIP-R fabric to simplify the process. This pattern includes sizes ranging from Lap (54″ x 70″) to Queen (92 ½” x 108 ½”), along with additional instructions for those opting to use non-STRIP-R fabrics.
It’s an excellent choice for new quilters due to its straightforward approach and flexibility in size options, allowing crafters to quickly produce everything from a cozy lap quilt to a full-sized bed quilt.
6. 3 Yard Rail Fence Quilt Pattern (Digital Downloadable Pattern For Sale)

The 3-Yard Rail Fence Quilt Pattern by Donna Robertson of Fabric Cafe is designed to use exactly 3 yards of fabric, making it economical and efficient. This pattern includes an assembly diagram and step-by-step directions that simplify the cutting and piecing process, allowing quilters of all skill levels to create a beautiful quilt easily.
With a finished size of 44 x 62 inches, this quilt is perfect for a straightforward project that efficiently utilizes materials without any waste.
The Not Your Mother’s Rail Fence Quilt Pattern from Highway 10 Designs offers a fresh take on the classic rail fence design. This pattern uses four fabrics in a gradient from light to dark, with varying strip sizes, to create a visually appealing effect.
It provides patterns for four generously sized quilts, including Lap, Twin, Full, and Queen, making it versatile for different needs. This pattern simplifies the process while delivering sophisticated results, ideal for beginner quilters and perfect for anyone looking to update a traditional style with a modern twist.
8. Ocean Rail Fence Waves Quilt Pattern (PDF Downloadable Pattern For Sale)

The Ocean Rail Fence Waves Quilt Pattern by Margie Mitchell of Sky High Fibers offers directions for both twin (56 3/4″ x 79 1/4″) and queen (79 1/4″ x 101 3/4″) sized quilts. This pattern features soft green, blue, and purple batik fabrics that enhance the sophistication of the design, evoking the serene and rhythmic beauty of ocean waves.
It’s an excellent choice for quilters looking to create a calming, ocean-themed quilt with a stylish and modern appeal.
9. Busted Fence Quilt Pattern (Downloadable Pattern For Sale)

The Busted Fence Quilt Pattern by Rachel Julia of Kohatu Patterns presents a modern twist on the traditional Post and Rail (or Rail Fence) design. This pattern suits quilters looking for a relatively easy project using traditional machine piecing techniques. It’s a quick and enjoyable quilt, perfect for a weekend project.
The design takes inspiration from classic Post and Rail quilts. Still, it adds a contemporary flair, making it an appealing choice for anyone wanting to blend traditional quilting styles with modern aesthetics.
Here Are More Rail Fence Quilt Ideas For Inspiration

Just finished this vintage rail fence quilt top, pieced together from decades-old scraps! I imagine the original maker would be happy to see their tiny, hand-cut pieces given new life. Today, I’m celebrating with my favorite little helper while his mama has an appointment.

Rail fence blocks coming along nicely! Almost there.

The classic rail fence pattern gets a modern twist in this adorable baby quilt. The contrasting colors and prints create a playful chevron effect. And just look at that soft flannel backing!

Taking a break from unpacking to hand-tie this rescued quilt top. Each tiny stitch is a tribute to the patience of the original quilter.

Finished this striking Single Rail Fence quilt top in a Streak of Lightning setting! Measures 81 inches x 67 inches.

First chilly morning calls for a finished quilt! Hand-quilted with love (and a touch of sashiko thread!), this beauty is perfect for snuggling. Lucy agrees!

Woot! All 49 blocks are done! Feeling accomplished and ready to assemble this beauty.

This ‘un-quilt’ was inspired by the idea of boundaries. Maybe it’s time it stopped being a boundary between me and my quilting goals!

Simple block, stunning results! My Rail Fence reimagination features angled rails and block rotation for a playful twist. I love how the Painted Blossoms fabrics by @island_batik create a beautiful pinwheel effect.

A beautiful start to a quilting journey! Josett’s first quilt is a classic Rail Fence, finished with a lovely Hawaiian Vacation quilting pattern. Perfect for gifting to loved ones!

Who needs ribbon candy when you have this adorable mini quilt? Stitched up from my Simple Whatnots III book, this little guy is ready to bring some holiday magic to your home.

Flimsy Friday! This quilt top came together beautifully. Now I’m dreaming of making one in every color! My stash is ready!
We hope this roundup of Rail Fence quilt patterns has ignited your quilting spirit and shown you the endless possibilities of this timeless design! From its classic zigzag layout to modern variations that push the boundaries of creativity, the Rail Fence pattern offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned quilter seeking a relaxing project or a beginner eager to learn the ropes, these patterns are a perfect way to showcase your favorite fabrics and create a stunning quilt that will be treasured for years. So, gather your supplies, embrace the simplicity of straight-line piecing, and let your imagination run wild as you stitch together a beautiful Rail Fence masterpiece!

Mary
Thursday 10th of November 2022
These are all pretty and absolutely doable for beginners like me. Thanks