Welcome to the 2nd Quarter Block Exchange! This quarter we’ll be taking things to the next level by focusing on making star blocks.  Starting with a background in dark blue – black will give us a terrific field to let our starry blocks shine. 

Sign up for: Starry Night Block Exchange

Details

Exchange Info:

• Make (3) blocks for each Exchange-mate. 
• Blocks are to be 12 ½” x 12 ½” trimmed. (12” x 12” finished).
• We’ll divide up into groups of a minimum of 4 people (depending on participation)
• People can request their stars be made in a specific color.
• Sign-ups start May 12th, end May 19th.
• Teams will be assigned and notified by May 21st.
• Blocks to be postmarked by June 27th
• Finished projects will be shared at the September 8th guild meeting

Block Info: 

• You may make any type of star. (Improv, paper-pieced, applique, etc.)
• You may have as many stars as you would like in your block.
• Stars should be limited to one fabric per block.
• Your stars do not need to be centered in the block.

Materials:

• Dark blue, black and/or dark low volume prints. Use quilting cotton for the background.
• Various colors in prints or solids for the stars. Star fabric is not limited to quilting cottons. Your exchange-mates may request stars in a specific color.

Skills Used:

• Accurate marking, measuring, and piecing
• Pressing
• Accurate trimming
• Straight line sewing
• Block design
• Creative play with final design project

Resources: 

• https://six-white-horses.blogspot.com/2012/01/lone-starburst.html
• https://bomquilts.com/free-paper-pieced-quilt-block-patterns/
• https://wombatquilts.com/free-paper-piecing-patterns/
• https://scissortailquilting.com/quilt-block-library/wonky-stars-quilt-block/
• https://www.generations-quilt-patterns.com/nells-star-quilt-block.html
• https://www.generations-quilt-patterns.com/twin-star-quilt-block.html
• https://forestquilting.com/free-paper-piecing-patterns-pg-2/
• https://www.fatquartershop.com/ultimate-beginner-quilt-block-eight-free-pdf
• http://www.mthoodquiltguild.org/star-block-patterns
• https://www.13spools.com/blog/2015/09/6-illusion-star-block-free-paper-pieced-pattern.html

Layout ideas: https://nidoquilters.wordpress.com/2016/07/30/more-quilt-layout-ideas/

Due Dates

Sign-ups close: May 19th
Partner Notifications: May 21st
Demo/Q&A Session: May 22nd Saturday Sew Day
Blocks must be mailed by: June 27th
Photos uploaded to Q2 photo folder: June 27th
Projects Due: September 8th (Sept Guild Meeting)