Traditional pattern, public domain. Named for Henry Clay, widely published in mid-1800s quilting patterns.
A political-era block featuring half-square triangles and squares arranged in a nine-patch grid to create a bold star or cross motif. Named for Henry Clay, it reflects the tradition of quilters naming blocks after political figures and campaigns.
Clay's Choice was named for Henry Clay (1777-1852), the Kentucky statesman, senator, and three-time presidential candidate. The block was created during one of his campaigns, likely in the 1830s or 1840s, continuing the American tradition of naming quilt blocks for political figures.
Political quilt blocks were common in 19th-century America when quilting and politics were both central to community life. Women, though unable to vote for much of this period, expressed political opinions through their quilts. Henry Clay was so popular that multiple blocks bear his name. Other politicians honored with block names include Lincoln, Harrison, and Jackson.
Also known as: Harry's Star, Henry of the West, Star of the West, Clay's Star
finished Block Size
12 inches
seam Allowance
1/4 inch
grid Basis
3x3 grid (each unit 4 inches finished)
units Required
4 HST units, 4 plain squares, 1 center square
All measurements include 1/4" seam allowance unless noted.
| Piece | Fabric | Cut Size | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | Dark | 4 7/8 x 4 7/8 inches | 2 | Cut once diagonally for 4 corner HST triangles |
| A | Accent | 4 7/8 x 4 7/8 inches | 2 | Cut once diagonally for 4 side HST triangles |
| A | Background | 4 7/8 x 4 7/8 inches | 4 | Cut once diagonally for 8 background triangles |
| B | Background | 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 inches | 4 | Corner plain squares |
| C | Dark | 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 inches | 1 | Center square |
Pair each dark triangle with a background triangle. Sew along the long edge with a 1/4 inch seam. Press toward the dark and trim to 4 1/2 inches square. Make 4 dark/background HST units.
Pair each accent triangle with a background triangle. Sew, press toward the accent, and trim to 4 1/2 inches square. Make 4 accent/background HST units.
Lay out in a 3x3 grid. Row 1: background square, dark HST (dark triangle pointing down-right), background square. Row 2: accent HST (accent pointing right), dark center square, accent HST (accent pointing left). Row 3: background square, dark HST (dark pointing up-right), background square. The dark HSTs form an X through the block and the accent HSTs flank the center.
Tip: The key to Clay's Choice is getting the HST orientations correct — draw it on paper first if needed.
Sew each row of 3 units together. Press seams in Rows 1 and 3 toward the plain squares. Press Row 2 seams toward the center square.
Join the rows, pinning at intersections to match seams. Press joining seams toward the outer rows. The block should measure 12 1/2 inches square.
See how this traditional pattern looks in different color combinations.
Straight set with 2-inch sashing — 4x5 blocks for a 56 x 68 inch throw
Alternating Clay's Choice with Grandmother's Choice for a paired design
On-point with cream setting triangles for an elegant presentation