Eight-point string stars with Carolyn Forster
String stars are frequently seen in old string quilts and make a stunning centre piece or a whole quilt.
Use up all your left-over scraps and strings to sew these shining stars.
Finished star block size: 18 3/4in
What will we cover?
You will learn two string piecing techniques on the day, then learn how to sew the diamonds together using Y seams (set in seams), OR with a few extra seams to sew, you won’t have to set in the pieces! Either way is fine!
This workshop is all machine sewing.
Finished star block size: 18 3/4in
How will I be taught?
Carolyn will share the benefit of her patchwork experience and her tips and tricks for string piecing in our light and airy studio.
Do I need any previous experience or skills?
Are materials provided? Is there anything I need to source myself?
For each star you will need:
Background fabric:
If you choose to set in the pieces (using Y seams):
- cut four 6in squares
- cut four quarter square triangles from one 9in square
If you choose to piece with no set in (Y seams) seams (so all straight line sewing):
- cut eight half square triangles from four 6 3/8in squares
- cut eight half square triangles from four squares 4 3/4in
For the stars:
Strings and scraps of fabric.
There are two ways you can make the diamonds for the star points:
- Sew lots of strings together to make a ‘new’ fabric, then use Freezer Paper to make the stars. For this method you will need:
- A4 sheet of template plastic, pen or pencil to draw on it and scissors to cut it.
- Approx 1m freezer paper
- Rotary cutting ruler 1inx12in is useful
OR
- Cut a base from light-weight sew in Vilene to sew your fabrics to. For this method you will need:
- A4 sheet of template plastic as above
- 1m light-weight sew in Vilene
- Rotary cutting ruler 1in x 12in is useful
Co-ordinating thread
Sewing machine with 1/4in piecing foot.
What will I take home with me?
A finished string star block that you can use to make a cushion or bag or as the starting point to a table runner or quilt.
Refreshments
Drinks and biscuits will be available but we recommend that you bring a packed lunch with you.
Photography
During all of our workshops photographs are taken for promotional purposes only. Please make us aware at the time of booking if you would prefer not to be included.
Tutor
Carolyn Forster studied textiles at Bath, and has a City and Guilds in Patchwork and Quilting. Carolyn's work has been featured in various quilting magazines, as well as on television, both here and in the US. Since self-publishing her first book, 'Quilting-on-the-Go', Carolyn has written books for Landauer Publishing in the US and Search Press in the UK, and has contributed to books published by New Holland and That Patchwork Place.
