I could not figure out how to update my original post, so I am replying instead.
Thank you all for your suggestions! So many ideas I had not considered. I have finished quilting the quilt in question. However, I now have many ideas running through my mind for the sashing on another quilt top that I am finished and will begin quilting as soon as I can layer it. Maybe not until after April 15. :-( Darn taxes
I left the 1/2" stars un-quilted so the would stand out. I used the suggested horizontal lines for the sashing. I was surprised to discover how difficult it was to sew a really straight quilting line, even with a walking foot. It's not done nearly as well as I would have liked, but it's finished. Given it's only my 4th quilt completely finished in the past 6-7 years, I'm still learning! This was all done on my DSM.
I will post a picture to the pictures section of the QuiltingBoard as soon as I've added the binding.
Thank you again for all your help!