STARRY PATH (Farm Journal) (Set in groups of four) (Grid = 8 x 8)

Quilt Notes: BLOCK STAR is featured in OPTICAL ILLUSIONS FOR QUILTERS, by Karen Combs (1997), with full pattern templates (also included in ENCYCLOPEDIA OF PIECED QUILT PATTERNS, as a two-block pattern, #1029). The illusion resides in the seemingly leaf-like curved edges of the 12-sided dodecagon, which is actually constructed only with straight lines. There are several quilt designs called "Block Star," but this one seems the most appropriate to the name, because the 5 squares, or blocks as geometric forms, assemble into what might be claimed as an asterisk or four-point star design. It is attributed to Nancy Cabot/Wilma Smith, in Barbara Brackman's ENCYCLOPEDIA (#1029), though if it is Cabot, probably not under this name. The squares of BlOCK STAR, as they meander in the tiling pattern (see below), seem like stepping stones, as though one were stepping from star to star within a vast space universe (symbolized by the empty dodecahedron). As a theme, the idea is somewhat reminiscent of STARRY PATH, illustrated left. Other dodecahedrons like BLOCK STAR, at this site, or blocks with secondary circular designs, created by straight-edge polygons in the tiling pattern include: • ARROWHEADS (dodecagon) • BEAUTIFUL STAR (dodecagon) • GRANDMA'S SURPRISE (octagon) • JAPANESE FLOWER (irregular dodecagon) • PIGEON TOES (octagon)