Tambo Star Quilt Pattern - Printed Version

How Controlled Improv works

If you've made traditional quilt patterns, this one will feel a little different, in the best way. Controlled Improv patterns don't include a placement chart telling you where to put each color or block. You won't find "Fabric 3 goes here."

What you do get is a plan you can trust: clear cutting instructions, step-by-step block construction, and guidance on choosing colors and balancing lights and darks so your quilt flows. Then you get to play. You decide where each piece lands, and your quilt ends up uniquely yours.

If improv makes you a little nervous, you're in good company, and you don't have to figure it out alone. In HIVE+, you can get color and layout feedback from me, join a monthly LIVE where we practice controlled improv design together, and work through full companion courses for select patterns. You'll also get free shipping on every Jittery Wings order, all with a whole hive of color-loving quilters cheering you on. No quilt police, just process over perfection. 🐝

Join HIVE+ →

This quilt lives completely into all the colors and controlled improv. The Quarter Square Triangle blocks bring a big impact and make this quilt a scroll stopper. The pattern uses traditional piecing methods.

Pattern Cover uses Bundle No. 1, curated by Mitzie here at Jittery Wings Quilt Co. Outside the US, you can check with Cow and Giraffe to purchase that bundle.

Use our BeeLiner 4.5 Ruler to trim your QST Blocks: Watch Our How To Video Here.