My most favorite block is Log Cabin. If I were making many, many coasters, I would probably simplify it a bit and make Quarter Log Cabins. Like this:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]502313[/ATTACH]
By using 1.5" cut strips, it would make a 5.5" unfinished block.
Hmmm - think I just discovered a Christmas gift for my sister who has Fiesta Dinnerware.