Let’s look at Log Cabin Quilts

Log cabin quilts are some of my favorite quilts to make.  They are scrap friendly and there are so many ways to do a log cabin quilt.   If you have strips of scrap fabric there is a log cabin quilt option for you, from traditional to improvisational.

Blocks

The traditional log cabin has a center square.  Historically this square was done in yellow or red to symbolize the hearth. Then uniform strips of fabric (logs) are added around the square in a circular pattern.  Customarily these are added so that two adjacent sides are light and the other adjacent sides are dark.  This creates a stepping half square triangle look.

A variation of the traditional log cabin block is courthouse steps.  Once again a center square is used.  However the strips are add first to opposite sides, then to the top and bottom of the block.  This creates a stepping hourglass look.  I combined courthouse square blocks with traditional log cabin squares to make this wall hanging.

Either of these method can be used to create a bullseye style block where the center block is framed in an echoing pattern. The quilt below is an example of this.  I also played with scale by making larger and smaller blocks.

The wonky log cabin block combines these methods to create a random pattern. I used this style of block along the bottom of my Dream quilt.

Variations

Next there are variations on log cabin blocks.  There is the quarter log cabin.  When making this block simply apply logs to two adjacent sides.  These block can be arranged on point.  Or try twisting and turning to make partial boxes like this quilt.

The pineapple quilt is another variation of the log cabin quilt.  Quilters have experimented with color and value in this intermediate block. 

If you like improv a wonky rose quilt block is up your alley.

Medallion quilts are a large scale log cabin.  A large quilt block is made the center of this style quilt.  While the logs are rows of various quilt blocks.  Color My World, the current sew along quilt, is an example of this style of quilt.

I’m offering a workshop all about log cabin quilts.  We will explore all the quilt blocks mentioned here.  In addition, I will teach about color and value.  We will explore how color and value can completely change the look of your quilt.  If you have scrappy strips and would love help turning them into amazing log cabin quilts join this workshop.  I’ll give you the tools you need to think outside the box as you bust your scraps.  Save your spot today.  The live session is Sep. 12th.  All instructional material is recorded and available to use again and again for 90 days.