Introducing the Stars & Variations Quilt Pattern
The “original” Multi-Colored Version of Stars & Variations
The first quilt block I ever made was the Ohio Star, and I’ve been in awe of its timeless beauty ever since.
From its crisp geometry to the endless possibilities it offers for design, there’s something captivating about the way this block balances simplicity and complexity—how a few well-placed lines and triangles can create something so striking.
Stars & Variations is my ode to this iconic block and the creative potential it inspires from the original layout to the endless variations it inspires.
The Two-Color Version of Stars & Variations
What is the Stars & Variations Quilt Pattern?
At the heart of this quilt are six variations of the Ohio Star block. By building on the familiar nine-patch structure, Stars & Variations encourages quilters to explore subtle design shifts that transform the classic layout into a beautiful constellation of star blocks—all without assembling anything more complicated than Quarter-Square Triangles (QSTs) and Split Quarter-Square Triangles (SQSTs).
For a fun way to experiment with fabric combinations, check out the free digital coloring page for this pattern! You can play with both the multi-color and two-color versions in all three sizes to find the perfect palette for your next patchwork project:
What Makes This Quilt pattern so stellar?
Let’s break it down. All six block variations in this quilt pattern share a common structure: a nine-patch layout featuring a central square, squares in each corner, and a combination of Quarter-Square Triangles (QSTs) or Split-QSTs framing the center. This shared structure makes the quilt feel cohesive while still celebrating the individual personality of each star.
To give each star its own spotlight, a narrow border has been added around each block. This design choice creates space, allowing the intricate details to stand out and making the overall composition feel more dynamic and playful. The borders frame each star like a work of art, helping achieve an even, balanced layout in the final design.
Exploring the Stars & Variations Quilt Blocks
Let’s take a closer look at each variation:
The First Variation: The Classic Ohio Star
This is the one that started it all for me. The first block I ever sewed as a beginning quilter, this classic design features four QSTs surrounding a central square. It’s a timeless, balanced block that continues to inspire my work to this day.
The Second Variation: Turning the Center Inside out
In this variation, the center square is flipped "inside out," and is added in the surrounding QSTs, creating the effect of colors radiating outward from the center. This shift moves the focus away from the center, drawing attention to the star points and adding a new dynamic to the design.
The Third Variation: Focusing on the Center
In this variation, the center square returns, drawing the focus back to the heart of the block and emphasizing the secondary color. The result is a bold design that highlights the interplay of colors and the timeless appeal of the classic star.
The Fourth Variation: Radiating outwards
In this variation, the secondary color forms a striking ring around the center square, drawing the eye inward and highlighting the heart of the block. This “frame” connects the star points, creating a sense of unity and giving the design a dynamic, radiant effect.
The Fifth Variation: Splitting the Points
Taking things in a new direction, this variation replaces the traditional QST star points with Split-QSTs and removes the center square. The result is a dynamic, asymmetrical design that feels bold and unexpected.
The Sixth Variation: Adding in layers
In this final variation, the center square returns to the Split-QST design, creating a block that feels both modern and yet still grounded in tradition. The interplay between the split triangles and the center square adds a sense of balance, while also creating an eye-catching illusion of layered depth.
Why Star Blocks are So Versatile
What amazes me most about working with star blocks is their versatility. With just a few tweaks—changing the color of a piece here or the layout of a triangle there—you can create entirely new designs. The possibilities feel endless, which is part of the magic of quilting. It’s a craft that encourages both tradition and innovation, and Stars & Variations aims to capture that spirit.
Who is the Stars & Variations Quilt Pattern For?
This pattern offers plenty of creative possibilities, which is why it's marked as an Easy Intermediate level. While the sewing itself is suitable for an Advanced Beginner, the organizational aspect is better suited to someone with a bit more quilting experience—someone comfortable managing multiple block layouts at once without feeling overwhelmed.
With Stars & Variations, you’ll get hands-on practice with Quarter-Square Triangles (QSTs) and Split-QSTs, while discovering how small shifts in layout can completely transform a design. The result? A quilt that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern—perfect for quilters ready to take their skills to the next level.
Make the Stars & Variations Quilt Your Own
Stars & Variations is more than a pattern—it’s a creative exploration. It invites you to play with color, texture, and form while honoring the design of one of quilting’s most beloved blocks. I can’t wait to see how you make it your own!
Stitch Your Own Constellation!
Ready to sparkle and shine? Grab your copy of Stars & Variations, fire up your sewing machine, and select your color palette (don’t forget to check out the digital coloring sheets at PreQuilt to guide your fabric choices). Gather your materials and watch your quilt take flight across the quilting galaxy!
Then, join the stellar quilting crew on social media: share your progress, cosmic color combos, and starry masterpieces with #StarsAndVariationsQuilt and tag me @broadclothstudio. I can’t wait to see your creations light up the sky!
