Traditional pattern, mid-1800s, public domain
A radiant eight-pointed star block that expands the LeMoyne Star with additional diamond tiers creating a glowing, starburst effect. Multiple rings of diamonds in graduated colors produce a sense of luminous depth and movement.
The Blazing Star evolved from the LeMoyne Star in the mid-1800s, as quilters expanded the basic eight-pointed form by adding additional tiers of diamonds. The pattern creates a dramatic starburst or sunburst effect that evokes celestial imagery.
This pattern was a show quilt block — often chosen for competition quilts or masterwork pieces intended to demonstrate advanced piecing skills. The graduated color rings create a glowing effect, and the name 'Blazing' reflects both the visual intensity and the celestial symbolism popular in 19th-century quilt naming.
Also known as: Blazing Sun, Mother's Delight, Harvest Sun
finished Block Size
18 inches
seam Allowance
1/4 inch
grid Basis
Central LeMoyne Star surrounded by an additional tier of 8 compound diamond units
units Required
8 inner diamonds, 8 outer compound diamond units (each made from 3 smaller diamonds), 4 corner squares, 4 side setting triangles
All measurements include 1/4" seam allowance unless noted.
| Piece | Fabric | Cut Size | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inner star diamond | Gold | 3" diamond (45°) | 8 | Central star; cut with diamond ruler |
| Middle tier diamond | Orange | 3" diamond (45°) | 8 | Sewn to outer edge of inner star diamonds |
| Outer tier diamond | Deep red | 3" diamond (45°) | 16 | Two per star point; flanking each middle diamond |
| Background triangle (inner) | Dark background | 4" x 4" | 4 | Cut in half diagonally; set between inner star points |
| Background square (inner) | Dark background | 3.5" x 3.5" | 4 | Set into inner star corners |
| Corner square (outer) | Dark background | 5.5" x 5.5" | 4 | Measure against assembled star; set-in seams |
| Side setting triangle (outer) | Dark background | 7" x 7" | 2 | Cut diagonally once for 4 triangles; set-in seams |
Sew 8 gold diamonds into a LeMoyne Star following standard set-in seam construction. Join diamonds into pairs, pairs into halves, then halves into the complete inner star. Set in the 4 inner background squares and 4 inner background triangles. Press all seams open.
Tip: Review the LeMoyne Star instructions if needed — this inner star must be perfect as the foundation for the outer tiers.
For each of the 8 star points, sew one orange middle diamond between two deep red outer diamonds to create a compound diamond unit. Press seams toward the outer diamonds. Make 8 compound units.
Tip: Maintain the 1/4-inch start/stop discipline on every diamond seam for set-in seam compatibility.
Set in each compound diamond unit along the outer edges of the inner star. Each unit bridges between two inner star points. Use Y-seam construction, sewing from the inner angle outward on each side.
Tip: Work around the star in one direction, completing each set-in seam fully before moving to the next.
Between the compound outer units, additional background fill pieces are needed. Measure the spaces carefully and cut triangles or partial shapes as needed to complete the octagonal ring. Press seams toward the background.
Tip: Measure twice, cut once — the spaces between outer points may vary slightly based on cumulative seam accuracy.
Using Y-seam construction, set in the 4 large corner squares and 4 side setting triangles to complete the square block. Press seams toward the background.
Tip: Mark the 1/4-inch pivot point on every background piece before sewing.
Press the entire block from the front with starch. Square to 18.5" x 18.5" including seam allowances. The graduated color rings should glow from center to edge.
Tip: Hang the block on a design wall and step back to verify the color graduation reads correctly from a distance.
See how this traditional pattern looks in different color combinations.
Single block medallion quilt with graduated borders
Four blocks for a stunning wall hanging or table topper
Alternating with plain blocks for a bed quilt