Ready to start the ornament challenge? Me too!
Last year, we had hundreds of people participating in this Challenge. But....
... the other day when I sent out the Frequently Asked Questions email and asked who was doing the Challenge (which I've done for the last couple years)....
we had even more people than last year replying they were doing the Challenge. Each year I'm more amazed than the last!
And I'm so super excited because I love seeing everyone's ornaments. It's easy to put off making these sometimes, but this Challenge really seems to inspire people to get going on them, and it always makes me - and YOU - so motivated!
As always, we're starting with the easy one: The Basic Star Pattern!
We're starting with this pattern because it's nice and easy. And also, it's awesome. ;)
This is the one that's based on the old-fashioned ‘Quilted Star’ technique that has been around forever and ever. Over the years, I changed it up a tad and put my own little spin on the techniques I use to make it. I started calling it the 'Basic Star' because once you master this one, our other patterns will seem so much easier.
And guess what? If you're new to this, you can learn how I make them, for free (yes, FREE). I have a 3-part video workshop, teaching this pattern step-by-step. I'll lead you through it all.... what you need, what to do, and how to finish it. Click RIGHT HERE for the videos.
So, I'm actually totally cheating this year, but I'm giving myself a pass because not only am I hard at work on the upcoming bundle (wait til you see it!) but also, last year, I'd made TWO versions. (The Basic Star can be made in SO many ways).
The two ornaments below almost look like 2 different patterns, but there are actually only TWO differences: I did a different number of layers on each (one has three layers, and the other has four), andI put the fabrics in a different order. You can also vary this pattern up by simply widening layers, or bringing them closer together.
TIP: Make a layer wider if you've got a fabric with a larger print on it.. so more of that print will show.
That's what I LOVE about this pattern – just change the order of fabrics, or the width between layers, or one of a zillion other details... and you will be able to create totally different looks.
Totally inspired! We have a beautiful new collection of fabrics at the quilt shop I work at that I’ve been dying to use. They are reds and creams (Cranberries and Cream by 3 Sisters). Since I decorate my tree in red and cream I think the ornaments would be beautiful in those fabrics! Can’t wait to go to work Tuesday and buy fabric!
I have been practicing this week with my alternate fabrics, so I am ready. I love the 6 layer version, so that is what I will do!
I made 2. I’m going to try to make 2 sets. Thanks for the challenges!
I chose a sparkly plaid material for one of my challenge fabrics but now I’m thinking it might not go as good with some of the other patterns. Do you have any thoughts on this.
Would you please post the names of the fabrics used to make the first ornament, the red and lime green? Thank you!
Hi Deborah, sure thing! Here you go.
Red print: Marcus Fabrics, Frosty ‘n Fun Collection, #0497
Shimmer: Kate & Birdie Paper Co. for Moda, Juniper, #13205
Green: Kona by Robert Kauffman, Tarragon color #316
Janelle
THANK YOU! I love these colors!
What is the secret for the point to come out even.
Hi Barbara, you can find a free video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_cyMOeDfsls&t=177s about this very topic! I hope that helps. Have a nice day and happy ornamenting!
Janelle
Is it possible to find the videos for the basic star pattern easier? I have already signed up and somewhere in my emails i have it. But its super inconvenient to have to search my email for it. I would have to look over a years worth of emails to find it. My phone doesnt have any emails over a year old, so I would have to use my computer. Could you possibly email them to me again, so I have access on my phone? Thanks
Hi Jessica, yes there actually is – yay! You can log into your account and navigate to the pattern page and find the basic star package there. Please send us an email if you need your login information. I don’t want to post that on this public page. Thanks so much! https://ornamentgirls.com/help/
Hi
I am not sure if I sent my reply to participate in the challenge or not. Is there a way to find out?
Hi Michelle, I actually don’t see a reply in our email but this comment works too! We’re so glad to have you joining us.
All foam is sold out. Any idea when they might be replenished or another source?
I’m so sorry about that. The craft stores should have some this time of year. Also, LA Crafts should have some as well.