I got these amazing 4 pc stars in a scrap bundle. I wanted to make them into this pattern but I'm not sure how to determine what size to make the mid-pieces (in my sad example below the made up pieces are off-white)

I tried to guess and hand sewed them together and it's kind of wonky.

Any advice?

I would measure the cut edges and subtract for seam allowance. Then i would draft it on graph paper to size. You can either make templates to cut out or fiddle with cutting shapes with your rotary cutter.

No it's not so sad. It just looks like it needs to be pressed. Each one you do will get better!
Keep showing us your progress!

Place the block on your printer and make a copy. Then cut out each piece and add a seam allowance! I did this once and it worked great!!

Good Luck!!

How about making a template from mylar using your sample. You can see through the mylar to trace each piece. When you trace the templates on your fabric, you will need to add 1/4" seam allowances all around. Put dots 1/4" from points so that you know when to stop sewing when sewing the pieces together.

Check out, (I think this is Rhonda's) http://www.bitsnpiecesworkshop.com/p...ointBlocks.php

I find a little starch on the fabric helps to stabilize those bias cuts, even with hand piecing :wink: :D:D:D

Smart!!! A- for you today only because you didn't say scan it. Not all printers are capable of scanning.

Thanks everyone - great ideas! I do not have the one I'm trying to duplicate - but I'll remember those tips for the next time I do this.

Ok, I'll keep trying... and posting updates. I think I have 600 of these little stars anyway. And plenty of little junky ones too.

One thing that l believe you did in your sample, it looks like you sewed into your seam allowance. This block appears to have set in seams. You have to stop 1/4" from each corner so you can set in the abutting seam. It looks like you may have sewn all the way to the edge of your fabric. Each unit, where it meets has a set in seam by the looks of things.

Try to find instructions on doing a traditional Tumbling blocks with a set in seam as the pattern appears to have a similar construction. The book Quilts! Quilts!! Quilts!!! has good pictures and diagrams to show how you do it. Good luck!