> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.prequilt.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.prequilt.com/prequilt-101/build-a-block-unit-for-the-fabric-calculator.md). # Build a Block Unit for the Fabric Calculator Introduction to Build a Block & Best practices ## About Build a Block & Auto Recognition for the Fabric Calculator In order for our fabric requirements feature (coming soon) to be able to correctly calculate the yardage of your fabric, you will need to ensure that you build or create your blocks so that PreQuilt can identify specific block units (via auto recognition). If your block units are not recognizable, the software may not be able to recommend efficient ways to cutting and sewing your fabric. ### About Block Units You might be wondering what we mean by a block unit. We've defined a block unit as a sub-group of patchwork piecing that are usually sewn together first. Once completed, these block units are then sewn together to construct the quilt block.

For example, one way to make the Sawtooth Star quilt block is with these block units: * 4 flying geese * 4 small squares * 1 large square Another way though could be with these block units: * 8 half-square triangles * 4 small squares * 1 large square There is a lot of variety, so it's important to create your blocks using the same block units you'd use when sewing your quilt top. ### Tips for Best Practices Please use these best practices to create your quilt blocks or block units so that you can get the most out of the fabric requirements feature. * Build out your block with block units that mimic the way you will sew your block together. * Mix and match block units to build out more complicated and intricate blocks. * Change the gridlines (in the Block Editor) to best divide your block space when building a block or block unit. * Use the snapping features when creating your blocks so that shapes nest together - this will make it easier for PreQuilt's auto recognition to identify block units. * Always build your blocks using **finished** measurements. *** ## How to Build a Block Unit Please note that I will walk you through how to create each of these block units in isolation. Mix and match these block units to build more intricate blocks that use multiple different block units. ### Rectangular Block Units


Square	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 4.39.12 PM.png	Squares
Rectangle	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 4.38.31 PM.png	Rectangles
Square in a Square	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 4.40.18 PM.png	Square in a Square

### Triangular Block Units


Half Square Triangle	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 4.43.10 PM.png	Half Square Triangle (HST)
Flying Geese	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 4.44.45 PM.png	Flying Geese
Half Rectangle Triangle	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 4.45.47 PM.png	Half Rectangle Triangle (HRT)
Quarter Square Triangle	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 4.47.34 PM.png	QST: 4 Different Fabrics
QST: Hourglass	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 4.48.24 PM.png	QST: Hourglass or Bowtie
QST: Hourglass Variation	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 4.49.03 PM.png	Broken link
Split QST	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 4.50.30 PM.png	Split QST
Triangle in a Square	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 5.04.29 PM.png	Triangle in a Square (Tri Rec)

### Circular Block Units


Circle	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 4.56.32 PM.png	Circles
Half Circle	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 5.02.35 PM.png	Half Circles
Traditional Drunkard's Path	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 4.58.14 PM.png	Traditional Drunkard's Path
Modern Drunkard's Path	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 4.59.01 PM.png	Modern Drunkard's Path
Orange Peel (Appliquéd)	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 5.00.39 PM.png	Appliquéd Orange Peel
Orange Peel (Pieced)	Screen Shot 2024-11-11 at 5.01.22 PM.png	Pieced Orange Peel