Spinning Star Quilt Block Tutorial

If you’re looking for a quilt block that combines visual flair with traditional roots, the Spinning Star quilt block is a must-try. With its dynamic layout and strong geometric appeal, this block adds energy to any quilt. Whether you’re creating a bold wall hanging or a lively bedspread, the Spinning Star offers both versatility and impact.

In today’s tutorial, we’ll walk through how to create the classic Spinning Star block from start to finish. This block is perfect for intermediate quilters or confident beginners ready to take on half-square triangles and angled piecing. You’ll also find a downloadable PDF pattern at the end of the article to guide you through the process.

If you’re ready to add a touch of bold geometry and vibrant color to your next quilting project, the Spinning Star Quilt Block is the perfect choice. With its dynamic points and radiant layout, this block gives the illusion of motion and light dancing across your quilt top.

Spinning Star Quilt Block Tutorial

📏 Finished Block Details:

• Finished Size: 10” x 10”

✂️ Fabric Requirements (per block):

• Background Fabric (Gray): 3 ½” x width of fabric (WOF)

• Colored Fabrics: 8 pieces of 4” x 6” (Use a rainbow or a scrappy color mix!)

✨ Tip: For a polished result, press your fabrics thoroughly before cutting. A light spray of starch will help with accuracy and make piecing smoother.

🔪 Cutting Instructions:

From Gray Background Fabric, cut:

• (4) 3 ½” squares

• (4) 5” x 3” strips

• (1) 2 ½” square

From each of the 8 Rainbow Fabrics, cut:

• (1) 4” square

• (1) 3” x 2” strip

🧵 Constructing the Block:

Step 1: Prepare Your Freezer Paper Templates

• Cut a sheet of Freezer Paper approximately 12” square for each block.

• Iron it lightly onto your ironing board to pick up some lint—this will help it stick better to your fabrics later.

• Trace the center square and star point templates from the pattern page onto the freezer paper. You’ll need:

  • One center square template

  • Four star point templates (or reuse one template multiple times)

Step 2: Fold and Prepare the Templates

• Carefully fold along all drawn lines on the freezer paper to create clean edges.

• This folding helps guide your fabric placement during construction.

Step 3: Assemble the Block

• Think of the Spinning Star as a 9-patch block: you’ll be constructing it in three rows of three sections each.

• Use the freezer paper to piece each section precisely, remembering:

🔄 Top Tips:

1. You’re working in reverse—so always check orientation before sewing.

2. Always iron the WRONG side of the fabric to the freezer paper!

3. Always sew right sides together when joining fabric pieces.

Step 4: Piece the Rows Together

• After you finish assembling your block segments, join the sections row by row.

• Then sew the three rows together to complete the block.

• Press carefully and square up to 10 ½”.

🧩 Finishing Your Blocks:

Continue this process to create a total of 6 blocks.
Display them on your design wall to enjoy the visual impact!

If you’re planning a Quilt-As-You-Go (QAYG) project, do not join your rows yet. However, if you’re ready to assemble rows, follow this next step.

🔗 Joining the Rows (Optional):

To join the first two rows:

• Cut two strips of the background fabric at 1.25” x WOF.

• You’ll only need one and a half strips—set the remaining half aside for the next row.

Sew the strip between the rows with careful alignment to maintain the spinning effect throughout the quilt.

🎨 Color Suggestions:

This block shines with bright rainbow fabrics against a neutral or dark background. Try:

• Jewel tones on black for drama

• Pastels on white or cream for a baby quilt

• Ombre effects using different shades of one color family

Mixing batiks or tone-on-tone prints adds even more depth!

📄 Download the Free Pattern PDF

To make your quilting process easier, I’ve created a PDF with all the templates and cutting instructions.
Spinning Star Quilt Block Pattern PDF

The Spinning Star Quilt Block offers more than just beauty it brings a sense of movement and harmony to your quilt. With sharp lines, bold colors, and a fun construction method, this block is sure to become one of your favorites.