IdahoSandy

Here is the thing, material stretches while you cut it, sewing it and no matter how careful you are pressing it will also stretch even then. So learned that lesson, so check everything again as you go.

GrannieAnnie

How do you attach each block separately? Sounds like how I do the precut strips. I'm missing something, I guess.

And paper piecing sounds like way too much work for a simple method.

janeknapp

I've done it both ways using long strips (Eleanor Burn's method) and cutting individual "logs" using Marti Michell's log cabin rulers. I much prefer cutting the individual "logs" as the blocks were not skewed the way they were using the long strips. If a person trimmed accurately with a ruler between each log added when piecing with long strips, then perhaps they would turn out okay. Just my humble opinion... : )

riutzelj

i like to precut the strips, using marti mitchell's log cabin ruler, then square the blocks as i go. recently did a double bed size this way and all the corners met well. The pattern i used had stars in form in the corners as a secondary design so the points were important.

cwessel47

If I am doing little tiny log cabins - strips 1/4" finished - I will paper piece. For the rest of them - I precut all of my fabric. The trick is sewing straight and having that blessed scant 1/4" seam allowance. Having everything precut also gives you the opportunity to "randomize" your strips well in scrappy stuff. I recently made 36 log cabin blocks with 36+ lights and 36+ darks using scraps. I feel like a robot at times, but when they are all laid out in combinations that have been pre-approved by me!, the assembly process is a piece of cake. The blocks are square.

coopah

I made several using Eleanor Burns' book on them. Instructions are clear and I didn't have any problems.

Nolee

What is the advantage of having this ruler over just cutting the strips with a regular ruler? I do make a lot of log cabins but I'm trying not to buy things that aren't really necessary.

Gerbie

Definitely - get her Quilt in a Day Log Cabin Book. Works great!!!

quilter68

There is also a Log Cabin method by Billie Lauder. It is completely different and VERY EASY. Just type in Billie Lauder and you will find it on her site. I love this style for making college quilts using school colors.

For a regular Log Cabin I use Eleanor Burns method.

MartiMorga

Again, great information for us "begining quilters". I learned paper piecing and have done 25 log cabin blocks that way, then the Cotton Method. Still have to finish assembling. Will try the Eleanor Burns method next. Looks like something I can handle. I was told to pre-wash my fabrics, but now I have seen it might be better not to. Read that it isn't smart to use normal spray starch on quilts because of the "food" content. So I guess I will quit prewashing. Thanks again all of you experienced people!!!!