Traditional / Public Domain — named for the state of Ohio, popular since the early 1800s
One of the most recognizable quilt blocks in American history. The Ohio Star uses quarter-square triangle units (instead of the Sawtooth Star's flying geese) to create an eight-pointed star with a distinctive windmill-like quality at each point.
The Ohio Star is one of the most iconic American quilt blocks, dating to the early 1800s. Ohio was a major hub for the westward migration, and the block is thought to honor the state's quilting community. The pattern uses quarter-square triangles, which give the star points their distinctive shape.
The Ohio Star was one of the first blocks to be named for a specific state, starting a tradition that eventually produced patterns named for nearly every state. It was a symbol of civic pride and community identity. The block appeared in quilts made for political campaigns, community fundraisers, and as gifts for newlyweds heading west on the Oregon Trail.
Also known as: Variable Star, Shoo Fly Star, Eastern Star, Star of the East, Lone Star (in some regions)
finished Block Size
12"
seam Allowance
1/4"
grid Basis
3x3 grid (each unit finishes to 4")
units Required
4 QSTs + 4 corner squares + 1 center square
All measurements include 1/4" seam allowance unless noted.
| Piece | Fabric | Cut Size | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Center Square | Star/Center | 4 1/2" x 4 1/2" | 1 | Block center |
| Corner Square | Background | 4 1/2" x 4 1/2" | 4 | Four corners |
| QST Square | Star | 5 1/4" x 5 1/4" | 2 | Cut twice diagonally (X) for quarter-square triangles |
| QST Square | Background | 5 1/4" x 5 1/4" | 2 | Cut twice diagonally (X) for quarter-square triangles |
First make HSTs: Draw a diagonal on two background 5 1/4" squares. Layer with star fabric, right sides together. Sew 1/4" from both sides of the line. Cut on the line. Press toward the dark. You now have 4 HSTs.
Take two HSTs and place them right sides together with opposite colors facing (dark on light). Draw a diagonal line perpendicular to the existing seam on the top unit. Sew 1/4" from both sides of this line. Cut on the line. Press. You get 2 QSTs from each pair — 4 total.
Tip: Trim each QST to 4 1/2" square. The center seam should run corner to corner with star points on two opposing sides.
Layout in a 3x3 grid: Row 1 = Corner, QST (star points up and down), Corner. Row 2 = QST (points left and right), Center, QST (points left and right). Row 3 = Corner, QST (star points up and down), Corner.
Sew Corner + QST + Corner with 1/4" seams. Press toward corners.
Sew QST + Center + QST for Row 2 (press toward center). Sew Row 3 like Row 1.
Nest seams and join all three rows. Press. Block should measure 12 1/2" square with a clean eight-pointed star.
See how this traditional pattern looks in different color combinations.
Straight set — classic star field
Alternating with Nine Patch blocks
On point with solid alternate blocks