Labyrinth Quilt Block Tutorial + Tips & Tricks

This blog post explains how to make the Labyrinth Star quilt block, a striking 16 inch by 16 inch design built from 64 simple units made up of solid squares and half square triangles. It emphasizes choosing high-contrast fabrics so the pattern does not get lost, then walks through the cutting list, the half square triangle pairings, and how to use symmetry to simplify assembly. By constructing just one quarter of the layout and repeating it four times, the block comes together smoothly and creates an impressive star that looks complex but is very achievable.

Isn’t this quilt block gorgeous? This is the Labyrinth Star, and yes, you can absolutely make it. The finished block measures 16 inches by 16 inches, so it is a large, bold design that really stands out. It is made up of 64 units, but do not let that number intimidate you. Every unit is something you have done before, mostly solid squares and half square triangles. Once you break it down into steps, it is very doable.

The most important thing you can do before you start is choose fabrics with strong contrast. Pick one dark fabric and one lighter fabric, and make sure they truly stand apart. My first attempt did not work because my fabrics were too similar in value, and the design got lost. A high-contrast pairing makes the labyrinth effect pop. I used white as the background, but you can choose any background you like as long as the contrast remains clear.

To get started, you will need a few sets of solid squares. Cut 20 background squares at 2 and 1/2 inches. Then cut 12 squares of your light fabric, also at 2 and 1/2 inches. Set these aside for later since they stay as solids.

Next, you will cut 3 inch squares that will be turned into half square triangles. Cut 10 background 3 inch squares, 8 light fabric 3 inch squares, and 14 dark fabric 3 inch squares. These are the pieces that will become the movement and angles in the block.

Now it is time to create your half square triangles. Pair your background and dark squares together to make eight sets. Place the squares right sides together, draw a diagonal line, sew a quarter inch on both sides of the line, cut them apart, and press them open. Next, pair your background and light squares to make two sets using the same method. Finally, pair your dark and light squares to make six sets, again using the same half square triangle process. Once all of your half square triangles are finished, the rest becomes much more fun.

This is where the magic of symmetry makes everything easier. The Labyrinth Star is a symmetrical design, which means you only need to learn one quarter of the block. Once you build that one section, you simply repeat it three more times. Lay out one quarter of the block carefully, then sew it together into a single unit. When you rotate that unit into each corner position, it fits perfectly every time. Make four identical quarter sections, sew them together, and the full Labyrinth Star appears.

It is a satisfying block to assemble because the pattern comes together in such a dramatic way. With a little patience during cutting and a careful layout, you end up with a stunning 16 inch star that looks far more complex than it really is. If you give this one a try, I think it will quickly become one of your favorites too. Follow us on Facebook, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and as always, happy sewing.