Introducing the Broken Star Quilt: A Classic Reimagined
There are not many quilt designs which can really command the room like the Broken Star. This ancient design is known for its gorgeous geometric geometry and complex visual depth, and is traditionally executed in precise diamond piecing and Y-seams. But Fons & Porter's Love of Quilting has simplified this showcase pattern and turned it into a fun modern project.
The Love of Quilting design splits up the classic central star into smaller unit blocks. The pattern uses clever piecing techniques like strip set construction and quick-pieced units to eschew any complicated set-in seams without compromising the dramatic 'exploding star' effect.
Key Pattern Details
- The design is from Fons & Porter's Love of Quilting.
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Techniques Employed: Strip-piecing, continuous strip assembly, 1/4” seam pressing and corner setting.
- Visual impact: A beautiful multidimensional gradient of light, medium and dark tonals extends out from the center.
Quilters can get sharp, nested points and flat quilt blocks — with much less frustration — by working with strip sets instead of diamond templates. All important: care should be taken in the selection of the fabrics – the tonal difference between the star points and the background setting fabrics should be strong enough to make the star's "broken" facets crisp and clear.
Final Thoughts
The Broken Star is one of the icons of quilting art and a perfect nexus between the old and the new quilling method. Fons & Porter's method demystifies a complicated heirloom design, and is a fun project for any stitcher who wants to take their piecing to the next level. Collect all your fabrics, keep your seam allowance tight and let this beautiful creation come alive, block by block!
Full Pattern: The Broken Star Quilt Free PDF Pattern

