How to Make a Perfect Ribbon Star Quilt Block

Inside: How to Make a Perfect Ribbon Star Quilt Block

The Ribbon Star Quilt Block is a very basic block that’s ideal for beginning quilters. At its core, it’s only a 4-patch block that uses half-square triangles.

There isn’t a lot of historical information on this block, but it’s name is derived from the v-shaped corners that resemble the cut ends of a ribbon.

No matter how it got its name, I know you’re going to love how easy this quilt block is to make. And be sure to grab the FREE PDF instructions below.

Ribbon Star Quilt Block Supplies

Materials List

This block is so economical. I used fat quarters that were in my stash. As long as you choose fabrics that have a contrast, anything will work.

Solid Fabric #1 (Light Teal)
Solid Fabric #2 (Dark Teal)
White Fabric (Kona White #1387)

Basic Sewing Supplies Needed

Sewing Machine
- Its nice to use a 1/4″ sewing foot to help maintain a perfect seam allowance
Cotton Thread
- I love using Aurifil 50 wt. thread
Sewing Pins
Rotary Cutter with sharp blade
Acrylic Ruler
Rotary Cutting Mat
Iron & Ironing Board

Cutting and Marking

Qty (3) 4″ x 4″ Dark Teal
Qty (3) 4″ x 4″ Light Teal
Qty (6) 4″ x 4″ White
Qty (4) 3 1/2″ x 3 1/2″ White

RIBBON STAR QUILT BLOCK TUTORIAL

Step 1: Cutting Out

Iron your fabrics nice and flat to remove any and all wrinkles. Use your cutting measurements above to get your pieces cut out and in order.

Step 2: Make Half Square Triangles (HST) 2-at-a-Time

Follow the diagram below to make four half square triangles.

Place a light and a dark fabric square right sides together.
Use a pencil or water soluble marker, draw a diagonal line from one corner to the opposite corner.
On both sides of the diagonal line, stitch a scant 1/4″ seam. See How to Sew the Perfect Quilting Seam Allowance for more details.
Using a quilter’s ruler and rotary cutter, cut along the pencil line.
Press seams to one side, and trim the block down to 3 1/2″ using a square quilting ruler.

Learn How to Make a Ribbon Star Quilt Block diagram

Step 3: Ribbon Star – Assembly

Arrange your blocks and HSTs in correct layout (pictured below).
Using a quarter inch seam allowance, sew together across in rows. Press seams in same direction on each row. Alternate pressing direction on each row.
Join all rows lengthwise, using a quarter inch seam allowance. Take time to nest your seams.
Press your completed block and trim down to 12.5″ square (if necessary).

Get a FREE PDF Download

The block assembly diagram above is available in a FREE downloadable PDF that includes the Ribbon Star Quilt Block Instructions with HST’s 2-at-a-Time. Please follow the directions in the red box below and it will be sent directly to your inbox. Note: Current Subscribers can re-enter their email but won’t be double subscribed.

Don’t you love this the Ribbon Star Quilt Block – especially the simplicity.

Try a different look by using small prints. Make each of the “stars” out of a different fabric from a collection. Or, try using low volume fabric for the background.

Better yet, the options for this simple quilt block are fun to imagine! You could make several more Ribbon Star blocks for an entire quilt or piece three or four together for a nice table runner.