In the case of a block that only uses squares and HSTs (Jacobs Ladder specifically for now), do you know if I can increase the size of each piece by 2" to make the block 8" instead of 6"? Or for that matter, can I double the size of each piece cut and end up with a 12" block instead of 6" that the pattern specifies? I know I can experiment with a sample block to figure this out, but I'm in the midst of other projects right now and only in the thinking phase on this. Has anyone tried it?
Thanks for any input.

you can do this with doubling or tripling, for sure...but always work with the finished size of the block and add seam allowances after you figure out the new finished dimensions. I've done it several times. When you enlarge HST's or QST's you're dealing with some odd dimensions, so I'd suggest making them larger than you need and cut them down to the size you need rather than trying to deal with exact dimensions to begin with. I'm less sure about just adding inches to do the increasing...it should work, but just not positive...

The book "Around the Block" has patterns for 4 or 5 different sizes of the same block.

Jacob's ladder is a 9 patch, which make it more difficult to try to do as an 8" block. It could be done, but I would go for 9" instead. Then you could calculate each patch as 3". Your 4 patches would be 1 3/4" squares or strips, and your half square triangles would be 3 7/8" or 4" and squared up to 3". A 12" block would have 4 patches that were 2 1/4" squares or strips, and half square triangles 4 7/8" or 5" and squared to 4".

Somewhere there is a chart that shows how to do this. I have it bookmarked on my computer but it is in the shop. As soon as I get it back I will check to see if you still need it.

Better yet, PM me Tuesday.

In the meanwhile someone else on here may come up with it.

I have 2 great products that help with resizing: Th Quilter's pocket reference by Peggy Scholley. I probably pick this book at least once a day. The second is a proportional scale. Hope this helps.

There are a lot of charts available, I just did the calculations in my head. I do it the easiest way for me.

Thanks to all of you for your replies and help.

Here is a chart I found:
http://www.needlepointers.com/displa...m%2fscale.html

It says "Needlepointers" but it is for quilt blocks. I hope this is a help.