These instructions teach a new technique (developed in 2014) that expands on our traditional foundation paper piecing approach using strip-piecing to complete the lone star units. To complete the stars, strips are sewn onto foundation paper to complete what we call a ‘Strip Set’. After the strip sets are completed, they are cut apart, rearranged, and resewn into a diamond star point. The technique evolved from seeing some common assembly approaches between the Summer Solstice and Bali Fever backgrounds. Judy began experimenting with ways to speed up the creation of a lone star block with a strip to eliminate cutting, while also minimizing fabric waste.
The Tarnished Windmill star was designed using 3″ strips for the strip piecing. It incorporates the windmill block developed with the Reclaimed West fabric collection. The general assembly process was designed with no Y-Seams. It uses yardage very efficiently at just over 7 yards of fabric for the top. The quilt on the coversheet was quilted by Vicki Ibison, and pieced by Quiltworx staff and one of our Certified Instructors, Diana Simkins.
