Pack a quilt, grab your sense of wonder, and head outside—because April’s Quilt Scouts adventure is all about stargazing!

From April 21-28, 2025, the world will be celebrating International Dark Sky Week, a time to appreciate the beauty of the night sky and raise awareness about light pollution. What better way to take part than by earning your Stargaze on a Quilt badge?

So, find a dark sky spot, spread out a quilt, and get ready to connect with the cosmos. Here’s everything you need to make your stargazing experience unforgettable.

About the Badge

The Stargaze on a Quilt Badge combines the joys of quilting with the wonder of astronomy. It encourages Scouts to engage with the natural world, use their handmade quilts in a practical way, and foster a connection between their craft and their outdoor experiences.

And guess what? This badge GLOWS IN THE DARK! Because what’s better than a badge that shines just like the stars you’ll be spotting?

✨ Click here to purchase the Stargaze on a Quilt Badge! ✨

Badge Requirements

To earn the Stargaze on a Quilt badge, complete the following:

• Learn basic astronomy – Identify at least five constellations and learn their stories.
• Create or choose a quilt for outdoor use – Make a small quilt or select one that’s easy to transport.
• Plan and participate in a stargazing event – Gather your troop or go solo, bringing your quilt along.
• Document the experience – Take photos, sketch constellations, or jot down notes in your Quilt Scouts Logbookor Stargazing Journal Page
• Bonus Challenge: Share your stargazing experience on the community forum! Explain how your quilt was used, which constellations you spotted, and any fun astronomy facts you learned.

🌠 Reflect on your adventure: Was your quilt comfy and practical? Did this inspire any future quilt projects connected to nature and the night sky?

Once you’ve completed the requirements, log your achievement and grab your glow-in-the-dark badge to celebrate!

Big Dipper Quilt Cloak Pattern

Meet the  — your new favorite layer for chilly mornings, cozy evenings, and stargazing under the open sky. This wholecloth quilt transforms into a wearable cloak with an oversized hood and sturdy snaps, so you can stay hands-free while staying toasty. Whether you’re huddled by the fire or watching constellations twinkle, this cloak brings the comfort of your favorite quilt wherever adventure takes you.

This pattern includes instructions for two sizes:

• The Big Dipper (adult size)

• The Little Dipper (kid size), perfect for your favorite tiny camper.

Find a Dark Sky Place

For the best views, head to a Dark Sky Place, a location certified by the International Dark-Sky Association as being free from excessive light pollution. You can search for an official Dark Sky Park, Reserve, or Sanctuary here.

But don’t worry if you can’t travel! Even your backyard or a local park can offer a beautiful view—just aim for a spot away from streetlights.

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