joe'smom

I'll be starting my first log cabin quilt soon. I noticed a promotion recently for a ruler called the Log Cabin trim tool, which made me wonder if this block tends to be wonky, and if it might be good to approach it as a trim down block. Has anyone tried this tool, and what do you think? I'd love to hear any suggestions and hints you might have on log cabin quilts!

Gail B

I have not seen that ruler. I have made many log cabins & simply use a 12 1/2" square up ruler. I see no need to purchase a ruler specifically for log cabins.

cjsews

I had issues with wonky blocks. Now that was my very first quilt. I did not have accurate seams I also did not press but ironed my strips after sewing. I have since learned to carefully press along the seams and not stretch the logs.

PaperPrincess

If you cut your strips WOF (from selvedge to selvedge) there's a bit of stretch. This can cause the blocks to get out of square if you use the 'sew then cut the excess' method. Starching the fabric or cutting the strips along the length of fabric (LOF) can minimize this, but the best way to stay on track is cut the strips to size first. Carefully press and square as you go

quilterpurpledog

I am amazed at the number of rulers and other aids commercially available for making the log cabin blocks! This is true of other blocks as well. Personally, I do not think any or all of these things are necessary. If you cut strips for the logs accurately and measure carefully as you go, you will not have difficulties. I think each piece length needs to be cut to size, pieced onto the growing block and pressed (not ironed) carefully. I use stream; but, I know others do not. I have enjoyed so many of the pictures of log cabin quilts made by board members who have taken this block to new heights of beauty.

Eva Knight

I, too have made a few log cabin quilts and don't see the need for a special ruler. You have received great advice from all above.

scrappingfaye58

I made a HUGE error in judgment when I attempted my first quilt as a log cabin from plaid flannels.... talk about wonky!!

cashs_mom

I agree, Eva. I did a log cabin variation just last fall and just used my regular 9" square it square up the blocks. I learned a lot about seam allowances on that project. Mine weren't as good as they should be on the first blocks, but I still managed to square them up without a special ruler. Of course, I'm not much into specialty rulers. So many of them seem to be no better than the standard squares and only useful on one block.

Onebyone

I like specialty rulers. Usually no math involved with them, if you want this size or shape lay it on line 1, another use line 2 and so forth. My first quilt was log cabin. I sewed and trimmed and it turned out okay. My next one I used a log cabin ruler and it turned out great. My next one I used the Go log cabin die and it turned out excellent. I always try the new way before dismissing it.

RedGarnet222

I agree Onebyone. I love specialty rulers and buy them if I can afford them. I do read reviews and make sure they are useful and that they work as described first though. Some of them can be pricey. I also try to take into account how many times I will use it.

Please make sure you starch your fabric mid to heavy and that will help with any pattern that you think will be difficult. Be accurate with your seams and try not to scrub with your iron. Up and down pressing.