patchsamkim

I have always precut my strips to size and not used a special ruler. You do need to sew an accurate 1/4" seam so everything fits together correctly.

elizajo

After reading Judy Martin's book with log cabin quilt patterns, I cut my strips on the lengthwise grain, parallel to the selvedge. It made a huge difference for me in making pieced log cabin blocks. The block didn't distort like it did with crosswise cuts. I used a standard 6" X 24" ruler.

teacherbailey

Ditto the others, I don't buy special rulers for stuff....BUT---I am a big fan of Eleanor Burns. She wrote the Quilt In a Day series, which has a Log Cabin book. Might have been her first. Either way, if you buy the book and follow her easy, detailed and illustrated directions-----you will make a beautiful quilt.

I'd say, spend your ruler money on the book instead!

twinkie

I have always just used my 3 x 18" ruler. Didn't know there was a special one.

orangeroom

No ruler here either! I usually make my blocks, then strip pieces as I go, in case size varies. I've never made a LC thicker than 1 1/2". Just my preference, I guess. Good luck. Please post a pic when done with your LC.

dove

I have a log cabin ruler, but did not use it to make the log cabin quilt. I used my general 6X24 ruler...just a thought:-)

gardnergal970

I have used a plain ruler and one from Marti Mitchell. Both give good results with accurate cutting and stitching. I did like the M&M ruler system better when it came to assembly and I was chain piecing. The strips were already the correct length which made it easier to keep square for me. Each of her rulers is made for two different size strips.

y.morman

I was taught to make a log cabin quilt by Trudie Hughes. In her method you cut all strips to the size you need, length and width. If the strip you add on is too long the your seam allowance is to deep. If the strip you are going to add on is to short then your seam allowance is to skimpy. My blocks came out great. I also learned the valuable lesson of pressing and not ironing. it will keep you blocks from distorting.

tessagin

Hmm! just for trial and error, I made 6 8" blocks using a regular school ruler then used my 8" square to block them and they look good to me. I'm just going to continue since it isn't complicated to me. Just making a small sampler/baby for a friend who is going to be a grandma.

patchwork

The only trick to a log cabin is consistant 1/4" seam allowance. No ruler needed. You could square up the blocks but if needed but if they are sewn correct and CUT correct it will turn out great. The log cabin is an old pattern for probably 100 yrs or more and until acouple years ago, there was no ruler to be had. There are a lot of rulers that are out there but for the price they don"t do anything that another ruler you already have won't do. I also consider, how many times will I use that ruler? If only once ore twice, that adds alot to the price of your quilt and then the ruler just lays around unused.