Ohio Star Block Help Please!!
 

This is my first Star Block. Looks easy on the pattern, however it is not coming out right.
It is for a 12" block. This is a beginner level pattern.
What I don't understand is four squares are cut 4 1/2 x 41/2 two squares are 5 1/4 x 5 1/4, cut into
quarter square triangles. One center square which is 4 1/2 x 4 1/2. Two more squares 5 1/4 x 5 1/4
cut into 1/4 square triangles.
The problem comes up when I sew them together. The quarter square triangles don't match up.
One set is bigger than the other and when sewed together they are smaller than the 4 1/2" squares
that they are supposed to be attached to.
I,m hoping I,m making sense.
Your help will be greatly appreciated.
Elaine

Sorry I'm a visual person; could you post pics or tell us what pattern book or website you got the pattern?

If one set of your QST's is bigger than the other set, it sounds like you have made an error in marking, cutting or sewing. QST's aren't easy, and it will take some practice to make them right. Don't feel bad about that - just practice with some scrap fabric. With the 5.25" squares, the QST's should measure 4" finished (4.5" unfinished) and will match up with your 4.5" unfinished squares.

The 5 1/4 inch squares are for the hour glass pieces. Usually you would place these right sides together and draw a line diagonally. Sew 1/4 in on each side of the line and cut down the middle. Rotate these so the colors are oposing and draw a line down the center and sew same as first time. When you cut these you should have your hour glass pieces for the stars at 4 1/2 inches. Try a test with some scrap fabric first to make sure it works out for you. I tend to over cut slightly and trim them down to get the perfect size needed.

I agree with Dunster. Also, I would check the 1/4" seam to be sure it is 1/4". You might need to do a scant 1/4".

cjsews has the best way to do it! are you sure that your 1/4" seam is accurate?

Thank you all for your suggestions. This is a McCalls pattern and I don't know how to upload it.
I guess what I couldn't figure out is why the squares are 4 1/2" and the hourglass is 5 1/4" before
cutting. I will practice it. Thank you all.

I would cut my QST squares at 5 1/2", make the HST patch, then make the QST and trim down to 4 1/2". Be sure to use the 45 degree mark on your ruler from corner to corner when trimming so your seams come out correctly.

The reason for the sizes are, your 4 1/2" patches only need to allow for one seam allowance of 1/4", your QST patches must allow for two 1/4" seam allowances across the diagonals of the block. The formula for QST's is Finished Block(4") Size+1 1/4". I usuall allow a bit more then square up, it's much easier and they fit better.