I am not one that is much on log cabin but I have done a number of 9 patches. With Eleanor Burns method, you can get two 9 patchs from two 8" square. One is called positive and the other negative. I tweak a lot of pattern to where I am comfortable making them and I cut as a go. You need to find what method you are comfortable with and go with it. Good Luck and just remember to have fun since this is a hobby !!