One of the friendliest beginner blocks is Shoo Fly. It’s very beginner friendly and super quick to sew. Here’s a little quilty history. This block has been showing up in quilts since the mid-1800s, and while no one can say for sure who named it, the most popular theory is that it was inspired by a plant called “shoo-fly,” which farmers used to keep flies away. Another theory says the block reminded people of a barn door opening, which is why you’ll sometimes see it called Hole in the Barn Door.