Thread: log cabin

I use the Go log cabin die. All the strips are cut to exact size. Once I got a perfected the 1/4 seam, every block is the same size. No squaring up needed.

Originally Posted by colorfulom

I've done both methods. For a true non-wonky log cabin, I prefer to have pieces cut to the correct size first. That's a fantastic test of your scant 1/4" seam, and it's also self-correcting - you get instant feedback on your seam size with every single piece you add! I even made myself a box to hold the cut pieces for my most recent log cabin using plastic canvas and yarn. Worked like a charm.

Here are the blocks on my design wall, and a photo of my box for the pieces.



I also made an intentionally wonky quilt from quarter log cabin blocks using the add first and trim after method. Very freeing to not worry at all about length or width of pieces!

Your tray is awesome. Thanks for sharing

I've used both methods, too. I will admit, when I stitch and trim, my blocks aren't always straight. When I used the precut logs way, I wanted the blocks scrappy and it was overwhelming for me to make sure I had enough strips in different fabrics and sizes to avoid duplication. Maybe it I'd been going planned and not scrappy the precut logs would have been fine. I do think that having one come up short would drive me nuts, though, and that doesn't happen with the stitch and trim method.

Having never successfully managed a log cabin block before, I tried Eleanor Burns' method recently and it worked, much to my surprise! Since it was my first effort, it is not "perfect" but with time, I believe it will get better. Sew, cut, press, sew again...much easier for me.

Thank you colorfulom for the plastic canvas box picture. This is just what I need. I couldn't find a tray with all the sections I needed. My log cabin friends will be so impressed with it. LOL

My favourite method for log cabin blocks is paper piecing, don't have to cut accurately and you end up with a perfectly sized block. I do the same step for all the blocks, before advancing to the next step - I find it much faster that way and I'm less likely to make a mistake.

Eleanor Burns is my go to for Log Cabins. The blocks always come out perfect...Good luck with yours!!