I always make the original old fashioned log cabin with 20 strips of fabric - light on the upper right - dark on the lower left and the deep red for the fire in the fireplace. I always put one in my quilt. Especially the samplers. Always in the center of the quilt. I have been doing the same pattern for years and every one is different, color wise, but always in order. I just personally think it is the richest looking one I have ever seen. It can be hard, sometimes it is easy, but I still love that one the best. Mine is from
www.quilt.com/Blocks/LogCabin/LogCabin.html. It makes a 12" block. The pattern is quite easy and fun to follow. I check off each progression on the quilt (with a pencil - so I can erase for the next block) and it is so neat to check off the last one and see a beautiful block done. Edie