 |
| West Virginia Star Block |
There’s something special about working with classic quilt blocks. They connect us to quilting’s deep roots while still offering plenty of room for creativity and personal expression. One of my recent favorites is the West Virginia Star Block, a traditional design thoughtfully shared by Wendy Russell of Patchwork Square.
This block features strong lines, striking geometry, and a beautiful balance between symmetry and movement. Whether you’re sewing for a heritage quilt or exploring Americana motifs, the West Virginia Star is a timeless choice.
What Makes the West Virginia Star Block Unique?
The West Virginia Star is a nine-patch block variation that utilizes half-square triangles (HSTs), square-in-a-square units, and simple piecing to create a layered star effect. It’s a block with depth and visual interest but doesn’t require overly complicated piecing—perfect for confident beginners and experienced quilters alike.
The design consists of:
- A center square-in-a-square unit, which adds dimension and a focal point.
- Eight star points, created with half-square triangles that frame the center beautifully.
- Corner units that enhance the star shape and bring balance to the block.
The finished block size is 12 inches, making it easy to integrate into larger quilts or sampler projects.
Materials and Cutting Guide:
Wendy's pattern offers a clear cutting guide and layout instructions. You’ll need three fabrics:
- Light fabric (great for background or contrast)
- Medium fabric for supporting the star’s structure
- Dark fabric to make the star points pop
The block construction is methodical and well-supported by Wendy’s helpful diagrams. Even if you’re newer to quilt blocks with multiple unit types, this is a great opportunity to practice accurate piecing.
Piecing Tips for Success:
From my experience sewing this block, here are a few tips to make your stitching smoother:
1. Use a scant ¼" seam allowance throughout—this will help your units line up just right.
2. Press carefully—press seams open or to the darker fabric, depending on your preferred technique, to avoid bulk where points meet.
3. Trim units as you go—accurate half-square triangles and square-in-a-square units make final assembly much easier.
Ideas for Using This Block:
The West Virginia Star works beautifully in:
- Sampler quilts – Pair it with other traditional blocks for a heritage look.
- Wall hangings – Feature it in a medallion-style layout or framed as a focal piece.
- Table runners or pillows – Make one or two blocks with patriotic or seasonal fabrics.
- Scrap quilts – Use stash fabric in similar color values for a scrappy, vibrant effect.
It’s also a wonderful block for showcasing contrast. Try a classic red, white, and blue palette for a patriotic theme, or go modern with jewel tones and low-volume backgrounds.
Wendy Russell’s West Virginia Star Block is a satisfying and adaptable design that blends tradition with opportunity for personal flair. It’s the kind of block that builds your piecing confidence while rewarding you with a beautiful result. Best of all, Wendy provides it for free—making it easy to add this stunning design to your quilting journey.
You can view the full pattern here: West Virginia Star Block Free Pattern
Happy quilting, and may your stars always shine bright—both on your quilts and in your creative heart.
