Step-by-Step: Pointy Stars Quilt Block Tutorial
The Pointy Stars quilt block is one of my all-time favorite designs because it combines simple construction with striking results. The block is built from a single quadrant repeated four times, and what makes it unique is the mix of half square triangles and half square rectangles, which create the sharp star points. Each quadrant uses a few squares, two half square triangles, and two half square rectangles trimmed to size. Once the pieces are laid out and sewn into rows, the quadrant comes together easily. Quilters can keep the block a single color or create multicolored stars by repeating the quadrant in different prints. The project requires no special tools and is a fun way to explore color while using basic techniques.
Pointy Stars has quickly become one of my top three favorite quilt block designs I have ever made. There is a little bit of technique involved, but it is absolutely doable and the results are striking. To explain it clearly, I like to start with a simplified version using only two colors, white and orange, because it makes the structure easier to see. Even with just two colors, the block is beautiful. When you break it down, this design is built from a single quadrant that repeats four times, which is true for many quilt blocks. Once you understand that one quadrant, the full block comes together naturally.
What sets this block apart is the combination of units. It does not rely solely on half square triangles. Instead, it incorporates half square rectangles, which give the star its distinctive pointy look. For each quadrant, you will need one 2½ inch white square and two 2½ inch squares of your chosen print. You will also need two half square triangles that finish at 2½ inches, so you will start with 3 inch squares to make those. Then come the half square rectangles. Cut your print and white pieces to 3 by 6 inches. If you have never made half square rectangles before, the process is similar to half square triangles, but with one important detail: rotate the white fabric to the left before stitching. Rotating it the wrong way will send your star points in the wrong direction. After drawing your diagonal line, sew a quarter inch on each side, cut, press, and trim to 2½ by 4½ inches.
These pieces form the building blocks of the quadrant. Lay them out carefully, sew each row, then join the rows together. Once you assemble one quadrant, you have cracked the code. From here, the design becomes even more fun. If you want a single color star, repeat the quadrant four times and you are done. But for those who want an extra creative challenge, like some of our longtime viewers Suzanne Douglas from Victoria, Australia, or Judy Brown from Juneau, Alaska, I encourage you to experiment with multiple colors. Think of it as doubling the recipe. Make a full set of pieces in each color, and when you assemble your blocks, the colors will meet at the corners to create beautiful multicolored stars throughout the quilt.
This project does not require any specialty rulers or tools, just what you already have in your sewing space. The results are worth every minute. Pointy Stars has earned its place alongside my Hunter's Star and Cathedral Window blocks as one of my top designs. I hope you will give it a try, and I would love to see what you create. Follow us on Facebook, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and as always, happy sewing.
