The first step to making a square barn quilt is to prepare a square sheet of plywood.
![One person holds a square piece of wood](https://quiltpatterns.co/wp-content/uploads/Barn-Quilt-Pattern/Blog/prepare-the-wood.jpg)
Prime the square plywood with a coat of exterior primer. This will help the paint adhere better and last longer.
![A hand is using a roller to paint a wooden panel](https://quiltpatterns.co/wp-content/uploads/Barn-Quilt-Pattern/Blog/paint-the-barn-quilt.jpg)
Once the primer is dry, lay out your pattern on the plywood. You can use a template or freehand your design.
![Transfer the barn quilt pattern to the grid](https://quiltpatterns.co/wp-content/uploads/Barn-Quilt-Pattern/Blog/transfer-the-barn-quilt-pattern-to-the-grid-1.jpg)
Use painter’s tape to mark off the different sections of your pattern.
![use painters tape or masking tape to cover](https://quiltpatterns.co/wp-content/uploads/Barn-Quilt-Pattern/Blog/use-painters-tape-or-masking-tape-to-cover.png)
Start painting with the lightest color first. Work your way up to the darkest color, painting over the painter’s tape as you go.
![a woman is painting the barn quilt](https://quiltpatterns.co/wp-content/uploads/Barn-Quilt-Pattern/Blog/barn-quilt-design-painting.jpg)
Once all of the sections are painted, remove the painter’s tape and let the paint dry completely.
Apply a coat of clear exterior sealant to protect your barn quilt square from the elements.
![A sheet of blue tape is being peeled off](https://quiltpatterns.co/wp-content/uploads/Barn-Quilt-Pattern/Blog/remove-tape-barn-quilt-design.jpg)
Attach your hanging apparatus to the back of the barn quilt square. You can hang it up on your barn, fence, or house. Barn quilt squares are a beautiful and unique way to add personality and charm to your property.