Under the Stars is a large quilt made from 35 blocks. All of the blocks are the same design, but there are 18 in one like-group and 17 in the other. One fabric is changed in each group to create more movement (and variety) across the face of the quilt.

I like to add variety by using (at least) two different versions of a block within the same quilt. And remember, you can mix it up even more and construct a truly scrappy quilt.

_{Janet Wickell}

Before it was finished, lots of you offered opinions about which fabric should be the focal point of this Cathedral Windows Rag Quilt. The remarks were pretty evenly divided. Some felt that the multi-color print would be too abrasive on the front of the quilt, while others thought the pastel would appear too faded.

I think the results show that the multi-color fabric actually moves to the background a bit when it's surrounded by the ragged circular sections of the pastel, but I do like the layout shown here, which flip-flops fabrics on the outer edge of the quilt.

It's easy to create your own size and layout for the Cathedral Windows rag quilt, but if this is your first rag quilt, be sure to read Rag Quilt General Instructions before you begin.

_{Photo © Janet Wickell}

The Cut Glass Dish is made up entirely of half-square triangle units and strip-pieced four patch units. The block has lots of patches, but it isn't difficult at all. Do be sure to cut fabric edges along the straight-grain and sew units together with a scant quarter-inch seam allowance to keep from "losing" width. Press carefully and your block will measure 12-1/2" square when complete, just as it should.

_{Illustration © Janet Wickell}

This simplified version of the Dolly Madison Star resembles Ohio Star and its variations, but with a nine patch sewn at the block's center.

The center nine patch is surrounded by red-red triangles (part of the quick pieced quarter square triangle units). Their hot red pops out, making the element's on-point shape one of the first things you notice about the design. You might prefer to use a color that's less dominant in those slots in order to highlight other block elements. The choice is yours.

_{Janet Wickell}