Star & Ocean Waves blocks {Quilt-as-You-Go Simple Sampler}

Welcome to week 4 and blocks 5 & 6 in the Quilt-as-You-Go Simple Sampler!

This week we are again making 2 blocks that use the same basic units. The star and ocean waves blocks are made up of 2.5" HST and plain blocks.  Start out by cutting (for each block) (4) 2.5" squares from the background fabric  and (3) 4" blocks each from your background and focus fabrics. (Note: the 4" squares will yield HSTs exactly 2.5" square. To give yourself a little more wiggle room cut your squares to 4.25" instead.)

 Match the 4" squares right sides together with a background and printed square together. Sew all the way around the squares, 1/4" from the edge.

Cross cut the squares on the diagonal twice to yield 4 HSTs per square. Press toward the darker fabric.

For the star, layout your HSTs as shown with the 4 solid background blocks in the corners.

Sew the blocks together in rows and press the seams of the rows in alternating directions.

Sew the rows together, nesting seams, and press the finished block. Check to be sure the block measures 8.5" square.

For the ocean wave block, layout the same dozen HSTs and 4 solid squares as shown below.

This one I sewed together in blocks, rather than rows. This makes it a lot easier to match points.  If you press carefully, you should be able to nest all your seams.

Measure the final block and trim to 8.5" square.

See the index post for details about adding borders and making a quilt-as-you-go sandwich.