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| Lori's Morning Star Quilt |
There’s something magical about a quilt block that feels both classic and celestial—and the Morning Star block is exactly that. Designed by Marcia Hohn of The Quilter’s Cache, this block blends tradition with a radiant visual impact, making it a beautiful choice for quilters who enjoy working with stars and structured layouts.
I recently explored this block in my sewing room, and let me tell you—it’s a joy to piece and even more satisfying to admire once it comes together.
Why the Morning Star Block is a Standout?:
The Morning Star is a variation of the classic eight-point star. It has a striking design thanks to the use of diamonds and triangles arranged to create bold, shining points that seem to radiate from the center.
It’s more intricate than a beginner block but still quite approachable for those ready to take their piecing skills to the next level. The finished block measures 12 inches square, making it versatile enough for quilts, wall hangings, or table toppers.
Marcia’s pattern includes:
- Detailed piecing instructions
- Diagrams to guide each step
- Color suggestions and layout tips
One of my favorite aspects of this block is how dramatically it changes depending on fabric choices. Whether you go scrappy or choose a tight palette of solids or batiks, the star will shine.
What You’ll Need:
To make the Morning Star block, gather:
- Three coordinating fabrics – light, medium, and dark for contrast
- Basic sewing and quilting supplies
- A rotary cutter and ruler for precision
The block is constructed with a combination of half-square triangles and diamond shapes, so accuracy in cutting and seam allowances is key. A bit of patience pays off beautifully!
Piecing Tips from My Sewing Table:
Here are a few practical tips that helped me while making the Morning Star block:
1. Pre-trim your units – Cutting accurate diamonds and triangles will help everything fit together smoothly. A specialty ruler can come in handy but isn’t essential.
2. Press with care – Pressing seams to the side or open, depending on bulk, helps the points stay crisp and flat.
3. Chain piece where possible – With repetition in the units, this speeds up the process and keeps things organized.
Marcia’s directions are clear and beginner-friendly, but if you’re new to piecing angles or diamonds, I suggest making a test block with scrap fabric to get the feel for it.
Creative Ways to Use the Morning Star Block:
The Morning Star block is incredibly versatile. Some ideas include:
- Samplers – Add this to a sampler quilt for a strong visual anchor.
- Repeating layout – Use it across an entire quilt top for a stunning celestial pattern.
- Seasonal décor – Try red, green, and gold for a festive star or cool tones for a wintry effect.
- Quilted pillows – One block alone makes a striking pillow top.
No matter how you use it, the Morning Star block brings brightness and balance to any quilt project.
Marcia Hohn’s Morning Star Quilt Block is a shining example of how traditional design elements can still feel fresh and inspiring. The geometric layout is both bold and elegant, offering the perfect platform to experiment with color and contrast.
If you’re looking for a star block with personality, structure, and charm, this one deserves a spot in your next quilting adventure, Get the Free Pattern on Quilter’s Cache
Happy quilting, and may your creativity shine as brightly as your stitches!
