I too have given up piecing them and now paper piece them. Takes longer but they are all straight and even.

For LC's of that size, I make it simple for myself by PPing. BTW, I hope that is supposed to be 5 1/2" raw size, because otherwise you are asking for grief. For regular piecing, I do agree that pressing (and checking the measures) after each step is important.

The best way I can keep them( log cabins blocks) square while working on the blocks , is to starch the heck out of the fabrics prior to cutting. It really really helps to keep everything straight. Also I use a terry cloth towel on my ironing board over the regular surface, this helps the blocks from stretching while pressing. The terry cloth gives resistance against the stretch. it will hold the fabric right where you put it.

I've had the same problem as you and my solution was to do like Ranchwife does. You aren't alone with this problem, having them 1/4"-1/2" wider then trimming after sewing, was mentioned in a well known log cabin book by a known author. although I don't remember who or what the book was.

Heres a YouTube video that shows paper piecing a log cabin block. http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=WpN6Tq-...%3DWpN6Tq-nTWg. Carol Doak has great books and some videos that will help. I taught myself to paper piece by watching lots of video tutes.

Also, you said that your 1/4" seam is ok. Measure your logs in the block. They should measure exactly 1". If they are too small, your seam is too big. If they are more than an inch, your seams are too small. If you are using a 1/4" foot, you often have to also adjust your needle position to get a true 1/4" seam.

ok so if I cut the strips say 2 inches wide rather than 1 and 1/2 wide - that sounds like a good plan.

Also the terry cloth and starch - will try !

The last log cabin I made, I cut the outside strips 1/4" wider. I could at least trim the blocks to all the same size. Be sure when you press the seams there is no overlap at all on the right side. I have to press each seam before adding another strip to keep the logs the same width. I press the seams open on a log cabin block.

I got Judy Martin's log cabin book and follow her directions. No problem. She has so many tips on how to make your log cabins (and all other sewing) come out perfectly, it's well worth the price. There's no trimming down necessary. Pre-cutting to size really helps.

http://www.amazon.com/Judy-Martins-C...rtin+log+cabin

Eleanor Burns log cabin patterns are easy and turn out perfect. My first log cabin was her log cabin stars quilt where the sashing makes a star pattern. It turned out great.
I reccomend all her patterns.