I have cut my logs to proper length before sewing and followed Judy Martin's instructions and was frustrated beyond sanity. I started over and used the old fashioned way, sew the logs on and then trim. So much more enjoyable. I press after sewing each round and then square up the block. No one has ever commented that any block was wonky and believe me there are several guild members that would point that out and say I know what you did. Jenny Doan does a great tutorial on plain log cabin block that would be a great starting project. I have made the log cabin using wedges and that was simplest of all.