QM Patterns: Stars of the Improv

Designed by Theresa Eisinger. Fabrics from Northcott/Monarch and Timeless Treasures. Sewn by Mickie Swall.

Stars of the Improv is a crib-size series quilt that you can make at your leisure as the improvisational construction techniques are featured in several issues of Quiltmaker. The directions for this quilt are given only on our web site but, as mentioned, you'll need copies of the magazine for reference. To order these issues of Quiltmaker magazine as they become back issues, call 800-477-6089. (Outside the U.S. call 303-604-1464.)

For help with all phases of the quiltmaking process, see Basic Lessons.

See Part 1 on the web site for the pattern schedule, yardage and cutting, and the patches needed for this crib quilt. See Part 2 to make the Spinning Star blocks. Part 3 includes directions for the Four Hearts blocks. Part 4 gives directions for making both the Bright Stripes and the Wave block.

 Part Five of Five:
  Assembling, Quilting and Finishing

Step 1: Assembling
Following the quilt assembly diagram, arrange and join 5 blocks for each row as shown. Press the seam allowances toward the Spinning Star and Four Hearts blocks. Matching centers and ends, join a sash to a row, easing as needed. Press the seam allowances toward the sash. Repeat to complete the center portion.

Add the side border strips and trim any extra length. Press the seam allowances toward the border strips. Repeat for the top and bottom borders.

Step 2: Quilting
The Stardust Quilting motif is taken from The Quiltmaker Collection: Quilting Motifs Volume II. Mark the motif 6 times along the top and bottom borders and 6 times on each side.



Layer and baste together the lining, batting and quilt top.

Quilt wavy lines along the sashes and loops in the blocks as shown. Quilt in the ditch the border seam line and then quilt the marked motifs.

Step 3: Finishing
Join binding strips and bind the edges of the quilt.

Wash your completed quilt on the gentle cycle of your machine and dry in the dryer to fray the raw edges of the hearts.