The Carpenter Star quilt by Mary Johnson of MaryQuilts.com, is a stunning example of traditional quilting design infused with modern techniques. This quilt, approximately 56 by 68 inches in size, is constructed using 6-inch finished blocks, resulting in a harmonious blend of squares and half-square triangles that create the captivating Carpenter Star pattern.
Mary's approach to this quilt emphasizes both precision and creativity. The center of the quilt is pieced in four sections, which are then assembled to form the striking star motif. In addition to the background squares, a combination of 6.5-inch half-square triangles—crafted from background, pink, and brown fabrics—are meticulously arranged. This thoughtful fabric placement gives the illusion of a quilt pieced from diamonds, adding depth and complexity to the design.
One of the distinctive features of this quilt is its pieced border, which adds a dynamic frame to the central design. Mary provides detailed instructions for creating 28 half-rectangle blocks that compose the border, guiding quilters through the process of cutting, sewing, and assembling these pieces to ensure a seamless integration with the main quilt top.
For those utilizing fabric yardage, Mary offers untested estimates to assist in planning: approximately 1 and 3/8 yards each of background and pink fabrics, and 1 and 7/8 yards of brown fabric. These estimates assume that the borders are pieced and serve as a general guide, with the recommendation to have extra fabric on hand, especially if using tools like the AccuQuilt GO for cutting.
Mary's dedication to sharing her quilting journey is evident in her detailed instruction sheet, available as a PDF download on her blog. This resource provides quilters with comprehensive guidance, from cutting instructions to assembly tips, enabling both novice and experienced quilters to recreate the Carpenter Star quilt with confidence.
In essence, the Carpenter Star quilt by Mary Johnson is a testament to the timeless appeal of traditional quilt patterns, thoughtfully adapted with modern techniques and shared generously to inspire and guide the quilting community.
Full Post: Download Carpenter Star Quilt Pattern
