It’s May….but you’d never know it here in Colorado, where the falling snow looks like a Norman Rockwell Christmas painting! I know…what in the world. I’m here with another Sugar Block for you, and I didn’t even realize that it looked so wintery until this very moment. I must be in sync with the weather (so next time I’m going for all warm colors!). I can’t wait to see what yummy fabrics you choose!
This month I chose the Lone Star as my classic patchwork inspiration. This eight-pointed star shape has been a quilting staple since the birth of America, and even earlier- in England as well as in Native American tribes- and through the years it’s had many names- Lakota Star, Mathematical Star, Bethlehem Star, Star of the East, and Morning Star.
From left to right: Lone Star by Jeannette Bruce of Gone Aussie Quilting via Craftsy, Deconstructed Lone Star by Amy Struckmeyer via Pinterest, Lone Star by Dolores Yoder via Amish Country Quilts, Blazing Star by Pamelaquilts via Etsy
Usually eight-pointed stars are filled in with strip-pieced diamonds, and lots of Y seams (yowzers!). I chose to to forgo all of that, and just use foundation paper piecing to create a less-fussy hollow eight-pointed star with a light, crisp look, that’s super easy to make.
Paper Pieced Morning Star Block
Finished Size: 12” square
Fabric Requirements:
1/4 yard of white
1/4 yard blue
1/4 yard teal
Cutting:
- White:
- (8) 3 1/2” x 4” rectangles (patches A1 and B1)
- (8) 4 1/2’’ squares (patches A4 and B4)
- (8) 4 1/2’’ x 2 1/2’’ rectangles (patches A5 and B5)
- Blue
- (8) 3 1/2” x 2 1/4” rectangles (patches A2 and B2)
- Teal
- (8) 2 1/4” squares (patches A3 and B3)
Templates:
You’ll find the templates for this block HERE. Print four copies.
NOTE- It’s important to make sure that your printer settings are on “actual size” and not
“shrink to fit,” so that your pieces will turn out the right size. To double check that the template printed correctly, measure the 1” marking on the template page with a ruler, and if it’s precisely 1”, then you’re good to go.
Construction:
1. If you’re comfortable paper piecing these, then print your templates and jump right in! If not, please refer to THIS photo tutorial of a similar block, or revisit the Craftsy BOM October lesson for a video demo. Piece all eight units using this method, then press with starch, trim, and remove the paper.
2. Stitch each A unit to a B unit along the longest side, and press the seam open (Figure 1).
Figure 1
3. Stitch the four square units together first in rows of two, press seams to the side, then join the rows, pinning at seam intersections (Figure 2). Square (trim) block to 12 1/2” as needed.
Figure 2
And that’s all there is to it! See why I love paper piecing? It’s a great change of pace, and in my opinion, the easiest way to get crisp, impressive-looking intricate angles.
Well that’s the Sugar block for May! I’ll be posting later this week about a brand new quilt I designed around this block so keep an eye out for that.
PS- Looking for the other block patterns from this year’s club? Look HERE.
PPS– Want a super printer-friendly PDF download of this pattern? Sign up for a Premium Sugar Block Club membership and receive all 12 months of block and full quilt patterns for a flat $19.99. (Honestly, I hate even mentioning this because I’m not one for oodles of marketing, but the truth is this is an exceptional value! 24 patterns, complete with step by step diagrams, and even multiple-size quilt options- for just $.83 per pattern!). You can sign up to be a premium member HERE. Ok- marketing side note complete!
I saw on IG that you had a fun wedding last night and I was getting a bit nervous that the block would be late. Which would really be no big deal but I was really wanting to get it done today because this week, my craft room is the room I plan to get packed. Just under 3 weeks to moving day and it’s time to give up most of my craft room!
Also, it’s a lovely block and thank you for doing SBC! I love it!
Thanks Branalyn! I’m so glad you like this month’s block!! 😊 Happy sewing!
Another beautiful block, Thanks Amy.
Just printed off my pattern. Read to go tomorrow morning. Might go and pick out my fabrics now tho! Thank you for another lovely block.
Oh isn’t it gorgeous- I think I could get quite addicted to making these, such a pretty block and the Morning Star holds a special place in my heart!
I just finished a paper piecing class so I am excited to put my new skills to the test. It’s a beautiful block!!!
I did sign up for this but only received this e-mail. Not the one with the pattern to paper piece.
is it to late to join the premium club/
Thanks for a paper piece foundation. Y seams are a pain.
Just a short note. I joined the Premium Group this morning which means I’ve missed the April and May email with the pattern. No hurry just thought I’d make a note of it here. Thanks. Lyn
Looking forward to making this block. I’m playing catch up and have three constructed so far, so it will be a few days before I get to this one. Thanks so much!
Love this block! I think it’s my favorite one…so far! I’m very much into paper piecing right now, these will be fun! Thank you!
I was just going to say the same thing as Kathy!! And my name is Kathy. How about that!
I was listening to your interview today with Sandi from the Crafty Planner. I was so excited to hear about your Sugar Block Club. I will be giving this block a try with my quirky twist.
tracinecharest at Gmail dot com
I’m really enjoying the Premium club. The quilt patterns are lovely! I just got all the patterns you have sent me printed out today and in a nice binder. Love having it all in one place and on paper. Your patterns are beautiful and original, and your presentations have an appealing grace to them. Thank you!
Hi Amy-Just curious and maybe it tells this somewhere but … can I access all of these patterns in the future (say, a yr or two later) if I don’t save them? If so, how? Love ’em!!! and love your blog.
Hi Amy – I am a member of the Premium club, but have not yet received my May pattern quilt. Did I miss it?
How can I get it? Thanks for your help.
the Albuquerque Modern Quilt Guild issued a challenge to members to join in and make a Sugar Block each month. Those of us participating bring the blocks to a meeting and we all hang them up with tape for the evening –it’s amazing how different ones look depending on fabric choices. Wonderful challenge. Time to make my May block!