Let’s change those plain blocks into snowball blocks, that we learnt to make using the sew and flip method

How about a bit of appliqué in those blank spaces, Look :lol: not hearts this time.

I've tried to use examples of combinations that we have covered so far, to show just how wide a variety of choices you have available to you for working with your quilts. It really is amazing what can be created with a few simple shapes :P

Also below is a PDF file with the instructions for making the Ohio Star

Variable Star

I am going to briefly cover making a variable Star using quarter square triangle units as these are very similar to half square triangles, just a repeat of a couple of steps really. When cutting squares for quarter square triangles we need to add 1 1/4” inches to our finished size, then cut both ways on the diagonal. We will again be sewing before we cut as in the method used for half square triangles Although I would probably classify this block as intermediate rather than beginner. I think that if you’ve mastered the half square triangles, then a quarter square triangle is very do-able and it’s good to stretch ourselves a wee bit. Don’t be afraid to have a go, if it does all turn to custard, you can always toss it in your scrap bin to use in a crumb block.

Fabric Requirements

You will need two color ways that contrast yet work well with each other and a background, I have used pinks and greens

From the background cut
Two of 4 7/8” squares and one of 5 1/4” square
From the dark green cut one of 5 1/4” square
From the dark pink cut two of 5 1/4” squares
From your medium green cut two of 4 7/8” squares
And finally from the light pink cut one of 4 1/2” square
(Pic 1)

Using the 4 7/8” medium green and background squares make four half square triangles as in the previous instructions for Split 9 Patch and Ohio Star (Pic 2)

Making the Quarter Square units

On The reverse side of your dark pink 5 1’4” squares mark a line diagonally from corner to corner. Sandwich one of these with the background 5 1/4” square and one with the dark green 5 1/4” square. Sew 1/4” seam on both sides of the line as previously for Half square triangles, Cut apart, press seams towards the dark pink and trim dog ears (Pic3a,b)

Your should now have four half square triangles, two of each pictured.(Pic4) To make quarter square triangle units just rinse and repeat :wink:

Mark a diagonal line on the reverse side of your half square units, drawing in the opposite direction to your seam line (Pic5a,b)

Sandwich two Half Square units as shown, butting the diagonal seams and ensuring that the dark pinks are opposite each other, In view B< I have folded back the top piece so you can see how the units need to be placed. Stitch 1/4” seam each side of marked line as previously (Pic 6a-d)

Cut Units apart and press seam open to reduce bulk (A) You should now have four quarter square units that look like this (B) (Pic 7a,b)

Lay out all your completed units and center square as shown. Pic 8