The LeMoyne Star block offers a variety of options in fabric selection. Be sure to maintain a high contrast between the diamonds and the background fabric. An interesting kaleidoscopic effect can be achieved by cutting the diamond template from the same fabric motif for each of the eight points. Striped fabrics, border prints, florals, all yield fabulous results. It's a great way to put zing into your quilt. The possibilities are endless!
Using starch on the fabric before cutting out the patches helps to stabilize the bias edges.
Mark the intersections of the 1/4" sewing lines (seam allowance) on each of the pieces if you are machine piecing or mark the entire sewing line if you are hand piecing.
Press your seams consistently in one direction clockwise or counterclockwise. It helps to lay your block out while you sew to keep track.
For all seams (except those on the outside edge of the block) DO NOT sew into the seam allowances. Start and stop your seams at the intersection marks you made. Go forward a stitch, then backtack, and forward again.
Step by step instructions:
- Sew the diamonds together in pairs, then sew two pairs together. Remember not to stitch into the seams!
- Now sew the two halves together. It helps to pin at the matching points and sew the seam one-half at a time, starting from the center. Press the seams all in the same direction and you will end up with a little rosette in the center which will press flat.
- Set in the triangles and squares, starting your seam from the inside of the block towards the outside. Sew the triangles in first.
