Winter Blues Star Table Runner

If you're looking for a quick runner that will still feel stunning on your table, this is the project for you! If you've never worked with Creek Side Patterns, this is a great one to start with. Their directions are clear and approachable for all sewing levels.

We just got in a beautiful line of wintery batiks at the shop and I was worried they might end up looking really busy if I wasn't careful picking a project. I've had this Cookie Starburst pattern in my back pocket for a while and I'm excited to use it with this fabric.

Let's start off with a few tips. Like with most patterns, take a minute and read the whole thing through before you start cutting. I know it can feel tedious, but it's so easy to get the small blocks mixed up. Take your time and nest your seams to help with bulk from the points. And use your preferred branch of starch to help get everything to lay nicely before all over quilting.

One of the nice things about this pattern is that it's only two fabrics to make all the stars and center blocks. After I pressed and cut the fabrics, I laid out the pieces next to my sewing machine, along with my pattern. Because I didn't write the pattern I can't share the measurements.

I got these little flying geese knocked out pretty quick. This pattern uses the traditional method of adding one wing at a time, so there's not a lot of room to trim when they're completed. I had to be a little more particular than usual with seam allowance and trimming to get them all to turn out just right.

After finishing the mini sawtooth star block, I made the second set of larger flying geese. Be careful to read the instructions on which squares and geese to set aside for other parts of the runner.

I first pieced the center sawtooth together. Then I put the outer sawtooth together in the same manner. I always love how this block looks no matter the project or fabric line. I'll mention again the importance of nesting the seams. I did not iron it until I was finished with the block, I only finger pressed the fabric enough to be able to work with the fabric better.

Here she is all sewn up! You may have noticed with both sizes of the sawtooth stars, there are some parts that aren't quite even or square. I was nervous to square them up until all the other parts of the runner were finished. Once it's cut, it's not fun to try and put it back in if there isn't enough fabric. And I do not like loosing my points after I've worked so hard to make them.

Once I had the two big double stars finished it was time to get the half double starts done. I had to pay close attention here too because I sewed the wrong half blocks together more than once. It took me a few tries to understand how the half square triangles were supposed to line up - even though there are plenty of helpful pictures! I was happy with it once I got it right! 

After the full and half blocks were ready, I put them together, along with the two background rectangles. Then I loaded it onto the longarm. I decided to go with a light blue and white lettered backing instead of using another batik from the line.

I think it was a sweet touch that lightened up the whole project. I chose a simple swirling design and creamy/ white thread that wouldn't detract or muddle the blocks and fabrics. Another nice thing about this pattern is that it only uses 3 fabrics. I pulled out the medium blue for the borders and I think it gives it just the right frosty finish!

I love how quickly it came together and how pretty and traditional it looks! I think the high contrast stars make it special. I like that it's a runner I can use all winter and not just for the holidays.

I hope this inspires you to make some new runners! I would definitely recommend this pattern, no matter your skill level. And it's great for any color palette or season!