Star of the Bluegrass Block
DIFFICULTY LEVEL ‣ ADVANCED
FINISHED BLOCK SIZE: 18″ x 18″
Although this block is known by many names, we find Star of the Bluegrass particularly charming. See our quilt of the same name for instructions on making a full quilt. This is an advanced block, but the large block size makes it manageable. Careful attention to cutting is important when making this block.
Instructions:
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
Read through entire pattern before beginning project. Use ¼” seam allowances with fabric right sides together. Pressing arrows are included with diagrams. Basic quiltmaking supplies are assumed. If working with directional prints, you may want to purchase more fabric than called for.
WOF = width of fabric
LOF = length of fabric
QST = quarter-square triangles
FABRIC:
Fabric A: (1) 3⅛” x WOF strip medium print for block centers
Fabric B: ¼ yard black for rings
Fabric C: (1) 3⅛” x WOF strip contrasting medium print for points
Fabric D: (1) 6″ x WOF strip blue print for block corners
Fabric E: (1) 9″ x 9″ square pink for block sides
CUTTING:
From Fabric B, cut:
• (2) 3⅛” x WOF strips
From Fabric D, cut:
• (1) 6″ x WOF strip. Cut strip into:
• (4) 6″ x 6″ squares
From Fabric E, cut:
• (1) 8¾” x 8¾” square. Cut square in half diagonally twice to make (4) side QST.
Block Assembly:
Referring to Diagram 1, join (1) Fabric A 3⅛” x WOF strip and (1) Fabric B 3-1/8″ x WOF strip, offsetting by 3⅛” as shown. Press all seams toward first strip in each set. Using 45º marking on a wide ruler, measure and cut 3⅛”-wide strips for Strip A. Cut 8. Paying attention to orientation, repeat with (1) Fabric B 3⅛” x WOF strip and (1) Fabric C 3⅛” x WOF strip to make (8) Strip Bs.
NOTE: These are difficult angles to cut properly. Measure carefully and readjust edge as needed between cuts. Accurate cutting is a must! 
Paying attention to orientation, lay out 1 strip from each set as shown in Diagram 2. Double-check fabric placement. Flip Strip B over Strip A, right sides together, aligning seams and pinning in place. Sew together and press seams to second row to complete (1) Star Unit. Make 8. 
Lay out (2) Star Units as shown in Diagram 3. Sew together as above to make (1) Quarter-Star Unit. Make 4. 
Referring to Diagram 4, lay out (4) Quarter-Star Units as shown. Join to make Block Center. 
Referring to Diagram 5, lay out Block Center with (4) Fabric D 6″ squares and (4) Fabric E QSTs. These are slightly oversized. Set in squares and QSTs. Trim block to 18½” x 18½” square, leaving ¼” outside of points to complete Star of the Bluegrass Block. 
