This week’s Moda Blockheads 6 block arrives with all the grace and refinement we’ve come to expect from Joanna Figueroa of Fig Tree & Co. Say hello to Bellissimo—an 18″ beauty that lives up to its name in every stitch.
“Bellissimo” means beautiful in Italian, and that’s exactly what this block is—elegant, crisp, and so satisfying to piece. Whether you’re going bold and bright or soft and subtle, this star will shine.
Bellissimo – A Star with European Flair
The Bellissimo Star Block combines half-square triangles, flying geese, and quarter-square triangles in a layered, radiant design. The structured geometry creates beautiful intersections and visual depth, with that classic starburst shape at the heart of it all.
There’s a balance of strength and softness here—something Joanna does so well in her quilt patterns. The block feels tailored and clean, but never harsh. It’s graceful and inviting—exactly the kind of design that anchors a sampler quilt or stands out as a focal point.
One of my tips is that a piece several sets of half square triangle papers in a big size. That way I have lots of sets and colors already made and I can trim down to what size I need for a particular block. It is not like I won’t use any extras on a future project!!
I loved working on this one. Because it finishes at 18″, you get the satisfaction of a larger block that comes together piece by piece, allowing for a little more play with color and contrast. I stayed with my vintage-faded theme but added in a few slightly darker tones to give the center star some dimension and added the stripe for fun. Bellissimo, indeed!
Meet Joanna Figueroa – Classic Elegance in Every Stitch
Joanna Figueroa is the heart and hands behind Fig Tree & Co., a brand beloved by quilters for its timeless patterns, romantic palettes, and soft vintage feel. Joanna designs bestselling fabric collections for Moda Fabrics, filled with florals, fresh fruit motifs, and gentle color stories rooted in her European heritage.
Her quilts are known for clean construction, approachable elegance, and a look that blends farmhouse comfort with a bit of European charm. Joanna’s also a prolific teacher, writer, and pattern designer who brings warmth and precision to everything she creates.
Follow Joanna for sneak peeks of upcoming collections, quilt-alongs, color theory tips, and behind-the-scenes life from her Bay Area studio:
- Instagram: @figtreeandco
- Facebook: Fig Tree & Co.
- YouTube: Fig Tree & Co. on YouTube
- Blog: blog.figtreeandcompany.com
- Website & Shop: figtreeandcompany.com
Her site is full of gorgeous quilt kits, patterns, and fabric bundles—and if you’re into seasonal sewing, her fall and Christmas patterns are some of the most charming around.
Sew Along & Shine
You’ll find the Bellissimo block download and a step-by-step video tutorial over on the Moda Blog. And be sure to read Joanna’s thoughts on the block—she always shares thoughtful insights about construction, fabric placement, and why the details matter.
Bellissimo, Indeed
Whether you go traditional or take a more modern route, Bellissimo offers the perfect balance of structure and beauty. Share your blocks using #ModaBlockheads and #ModaBlockheads6, and don’t forget to tag @modafabrics and @figtreeandco so we can all see your glowing stars.
This quilt just keeps getting more beautiful with every block, and Joanna’s design is a standout in every way.
Until next week… happy stitching, amici.
Details about this program, click here.
Follow each of the designers listed below.
Vanessa Christenson – Download the pattern here.
Lynne Hagmeier -Download the pattern here.
Anne Sutton -Download the pattern here.
Kiley Ferons-Download the pattern here.
Robin Pickens– Download the pattern here.
If you are not a member of the Blockheads 6 Facebook group, you can join here.
Appreciate you following along.
-modalissa
Stock #JF12FW10- ask for it at your favorite retailer.
Here is a before picture. Looks simple, right? We have put down almost 4o00 sq ft of flooring. We got alot more down today but I did not get many pictures. Afterall I had to stay focused on my actual job. I promise I will take more pictures tomorrow.
If you have never seen what set-up is all about. It is ALOT of work. If you don’t believe me just look how hard 
Wish you were here,