I have done log cabin blocks three ways...Eleanor Burns', Marti Michell's, and paper piecing. I seem to skew it when doing it the Eleanor Burns' way with long strips; the blocks need squaring up after every step. Paper piecing is more time consuming but accurate. Marti Michell's rulers save time and are accurate. You could cut the "logs" with a regular ruler, but accuracy is definitely needed every step of the way. I would always use sizing/starch on the fabric before cutting.