How to Make a Maple Star Quilt Block: a Free Tutorial
Learn how to sew a twelve-inch Maple Star quilt block with our free quilt pattern.
This week’s free quilt block pattern is for a twelve-inch Maple Star quilt block. Before we dive into how to create this stunning and unique block, let’s chat a bit about it!
If you’re wondering what you can do with just one quilt block pattern, be sure to check out our article with ideas on things to make with individual quilt blocks.
I love to sew quilt blocks, but I also love to learn a little bit about their history. I’ve been doing some research, and here’s what I discovered!
History of the Maple Star Quilt Block
The Maple Star quilt block is rooted in traditional quilt designs dating back to the 19th century. It is often associated with early American settlers’ rural and pastoral life, who drew inspiration from the natural world around them.
The maple leaf, a symbol of strength and endurance, is a fitting motif for quilts, which were made to provide warmth and comfort during the cold seasons. This block, however, differs significantly from a Maple Leaf Quilt Block.
What is a Maple Star Quilt Block?
A Maple Star Quilt Block is a simple 9-patch quilt block featuring a combination of rectangles, squares, and flying geese blocks.
Maple Star Blocks sewn by Hello Melly.
It seems more complicated to make than it is. The balance of the rectangles and squares gives the block balance. Also, since the block comprises multiple “layers,” there is much room for customization within it.
Supplies Needed
- Center Fabric (blue with red flower): 1 piece 4 1/2” x 4 1/2”
- Center Rectangles (light blue plaid): 4 pieces 2 1/2” x 4 1/2”
- Flying Geese Points & Small Squares (gray solid): 12 pieces 2 1/2” x 2 1/2”
- Background Fabric (turquoise small floral): 8 pieces 2 1/2” x 4 1/2” and 4 pieces 2 1/2” x 2 1/2”
How to Sew a Maple Star Quilt Block
Equipment
supplies
- 1 piece Center Fabric: 4 1/2” x 4 1/2”- Fabric A
- 4 pieces Center Rectangle Fabric: 2 1/2” x 4 1/2” – Fabric B
- 12 pieces Flying Geese Points & Small Squares Fabric: 2 1/2” x 2 1/2” – Fabric C
- 8 pieces Background Fabric: 2 1/2” x 4 1/2”
- 4 pieces Background Fabric 2 1/2" x 2 1/2"
Instructions
Step One: Make Flying Geese
- Draw a diagonal line on the wrong side of eight of the 2 1/2” pieces of Fabric C.
- Place one marked piece of Fabric C on one 2 1/2” x 4 1/2” piece of background fabric.
- Sew along the drawn line.
- Trim 1/4” on the outside of the sewn line.
- Flip right side up and press.
- Repeat on the other side of the rectangle.
- Repeat until you have four flying geese units.
Step Two: Make Corner Units
- Sew one 2 1/2” x 2 1/2” piece of Fabric C to one 2 1/2” x 2 1/2” piece of Background Fabric.. Press.
- Sew one 2 1/2” x 4 1/2” piece of Background Fabric to the bottom of this piece.
Step Three: Sew Rectangles
- Sew one of the flying geese units created in Step One to one 2 1/2” x 4 1/2” Fabric B piece as shown. Repeat until you have four units.
Assemble
- Assemble the block by rows according to the diagram.
- Press and square up to 12 1/2” x 12 1/2”.
Quilt Block Ideas
The Maple Star quilt block’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for everything from large bed quilts to smaller wall hangings or table runners.
Red, white, and blue Maple Star quilt blocks by Amy Smart of Diary of a Quilter
Whether you’re a beginner looking to practice your piecing skills or an experienced quilter seeking a timeless project, the Maple Star quilt block offers a perfect blend of tradition and creativity.
Pink and Blue Quilt Blocks sewn by Bev from Flamingo Toes
More Free Quilt Block Patterns
- Churn Dash Quilt Block
- Log Cabin Quilt Block
- Friendship Star Quilt Block
- Economy Block
- Shoo-Fly Quilt Block
- Bear Paw Quilt Block
- Maple Leaf Quilt Block
- Maple Star Quilt Block
This post has been updated from a previous version.
