Tricia's Favorite Block Tutorials -- Block 6 ECCENTRIC STAR

Here we are on Block 6 already. 

Just so you know, I am planning 12 blocks in my "Tricia's Favorite Block Tutorials" series.  After the 12 tutorials, I will post a fun sampler quilt featuring the 12 blocks along with the instructions.  So let's keep moving!

In case you've missed them, here are the first 5 blocks:

Block 1 -- Shoo Fly

Block 2 -- Courthouse Steps

Block 3 -- Flying Geese

Block 4 -- Rail Fence

Block 5 -- Electric Fan

Block 6 is

 ECCENTRIC STAR

 

Isn't it a fun block?

The Eccentric Star block is a Nine Patch variation.  I looked around for some historical information about this block but came up empty-handed.  Does anyone know the origin of this block?


Here's what you need:

4 dark squares 4 7/8" x 4 7/8"

1 dark square 4 1/2" x 4 1/2"

4 light squares 4 7/8" x 4 7/8"

Let's get started:

1.  Layer a 4 7/8" dark square right sides together with a light 4 7/8" square.  Draw a line from one corner to the opposite corner diagonally.

2.  Sew 1/4" away from both sides of the drawn line.

3.  Cut apart on the line.   Voila!  You have 2 half square triangle blocks (HSTs).

4.  Repeat steps 1-3 to make a total of 8 HSTs.

5.  Sew 3 HST's together, turning blocks as shown.  Make 2 rows.

6.  Sew a dark 4 1/2" square between 2 HST's.  Make 1 row.

7.  Sew the rows together to make an Eccentric Star block.

And you are done!  Stay tuned for Block #7 coming soon.