Lucky Star Block

Lucky Star Block by Donna of Quilting Sisters Unravelled

If you like stars with a modern twist, Ghazal Razavi's Lucky Star Block is a lovely 20"" star block that marries clean geometry with improv flair. This featured block by SewEndipitous and Figo Studio is perfect for layer cakes and fat quarters—and becomes a stunning on-its-own mini quilt or a show-stopping star in a full-size quilt.

Fabric Choices & Finished Size:

• Finished Block: 20″ × 20″

• Fabrics: A contrasting feature fabric for the star points against a crisp white background

• Notions: Several small prints to incorporate in patchwork, and at least ¼ yd of white for borders and sashing

Construction Overview:

1. Micro‑chip HSTs:

Construct Half‑Square Twists using small half-square triangles—these emphasize the star's sharp points.

2. Corner Units & Star Points:

Seam the HST units together with rectangle strips and squares, aligning with the grid to make 16 segments.

3. Adding Sashing & Borders:

Insert 4½" × 1" white sashing strips between block segments, with 1" white squares at intersection points.

4. Final Trim & Border:

Join 18" white strips to all sides, then 20" strips to top and bottom. Press seams out for professional finish.

5. Trim to Size:

Trim block to a finished size of 20" × 20" prior to quilting.

Quilting Tips:

• Precision Pressing: Press seams to sashing to reduce bulk and firm seams.

• Quilt Layout: Sew rows of sashing, then sew rows together in full blocks—pressing as you sew delivers crisp results.

• Setting Block: Use the block as a 20" mini or center to a star quilt with matching sashing and cornerstones surrounding it.

The entire pattern is available as a free PDF at SewEndipitous: Lucky Star Block Pattern

Why We Love It!

• Bold & Balanced — The dramatic highlights of the star break up against the white field, creating a dynamic sight.

• Perfect Size — Ideal starter block for a wall hanging, throw, or placemat.

• Modern Meets Traditional — Subtle HST accents add interest without making the overall design challenging to assemble.

The Lucky Star Block balances modern style with traditional piecing, creating bold visual contrast and challenging construction. As a center of interest for a mini quilt or as part of a star-themed sampler, the block celebrates accuracy, contrast, and creativity.

Turtle Crinkle Baby Softie Toy Sewing

Turtle Crinkle Baby Softie Toy Sewing

If you're a quilter who loves sewing for infants, the Turtle Crinkle Baby Softie Toy by Precious Patterns is a wonderful project that combines soft fabric sewing with fun, sensory play appropriate for newborns and toddlers alike.

Why We Adore the Turtle Crinkle Softie?

• Perfect beginner plush: Perfect for quilters new to sewing soft toys—this project introduces them to soft curves and hand-sewing into soft fabrics without requiring complicated patternmaking.

• Sensory joy: The crinkle paper inside the shell adds a gentle sound and stimulating tactile response, helping baby develop auditory and fine motor skills.

• Baby-friendly materials: Designed using quilting cotton or flannel, this soft toy remains cozy and durable while keeping little fingers safe and protected.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Outer fabric (quilting cotton or flannel): ½ yard

• Contrasting fabric for shell and legs: scraps or fat quarters

• Lining fabric: soft cotton or flannel for inner lining

• Crinkle paper: washable, food-safe paper for sensory excitement

• Polyester or cotton/poly batting: for filling

• Notions: matching thread, hand-sewing needle, sewing machine

Most of these will likely be in your quilting stash—making this project an ideal scrap-busting project!

Step-by-Step Sewing Overview:

1. Fused Template Assembly

• Trace or fusible web your turtle pieces with the vendor's included templates.

• Fuse them to the wrong side of your fabric for stable cutting and marking.

2. Cut & Stitch

• Cut shell front/rear, body front/rear, and legs/flippers to pattern.

• Sew pieces together right-sides together, leaving an opening to turn and stuff.

3. Insert Crinkle Paper

• Insert crinkle paper inside the shell; then, bring the lining and outer shell together—this covers raw seams and keeps sensory paper in place.

4. Stuffing & Finishing

• Insert batting into body, firmly enough for rigidity.

• Hand-whip-stitch the opening closed with matching thread.

Custom Design Touches

• Fabric Play: Choose soft pastels, cheerful prints, or co-ordinated scraps to match your quilted nursery decor.

• Quilting on Shell: Add quilting lines or reiterated stitching to mimic turtle shell ridges—adds texture and visual interest.

• Ribbon Tags or Embellishments: Employ satin ribbon loops or embroidered eyes—just make sure all attachments are secure and baby-friendly.

The Turtle Crinkle Baby Softie Toy pattern can be purchased as an instant PDF download from Precious Patterns. Look for it on Etsy: Turtle Crinkle Baby Softie Toy Sewing Pattern. This cheap download consists of full templates and step-by-step assembly instructions.

This is a pleasant break from quilt-making tradition: it's fast, enjoyable, and practical. The Turtle Crinkle Softie is also a gift consideration—particularly when paired with a coordinating quilted blanket. And creating with quilting scraps means it's eco-friendly as well as creative.

Quilted crafters: give this softie a try—it's a great way to push your skills, reuse scraps, and sew a more-than-special item for the youngest members of our family.