help with log cabin squares ?
 

I am frustrated - trying to make 5 1/2 inch log cabin squares. The pattern calls for the strips to be cut
1 1/2 inches wide.

I have double checked my cutting measurement, and my seam allowances (1/4 inch).

I am sewing straight seams, dry pressing them open, and yet they are still not looking square. Some pieces look wider than others and the squares came out wat too small.

I am on my second attempt with just starting all over and ready to give up.

Any suggestions ?

I can't make a log cabin block come out straight and square unless I paper piece them. . .

I'm making 120 log cabin squares at the moment and posted this same question earlier. I ended up strip piecing the squares, then trimming them after every "log" added. It takes longer, but I don't have the frustration of uneven logs and squares. I am amazed at how wonky the squares become even when being super careful. The method I'm doing now is great for me and even though some of the logs aren't exactly 1 inch (I'm doing 1.5 inch strips too), it is unnoticable to anyone but me.

Trim as you go to keep your squares square.

thanks - now I feel better knowing this is not just me. :o I don't know how to paper piece so.....

I will give it another shot with squaring as I go - can you tell me how you do that ? I have been using a small grid cutting board and lining up the edges with the grid, then trimming one edge straight, turning and doing the same to all sides. is this right ?

Do you block at each step it makes a difference

what does "block" mean - do you mean press and stretch it out ?

I have a clear omnigrid quilting ruler and I square up the squares with that. Just be aware of how big your square should be at the time and trim to those dimensions.

One of my first quilt was E. Burns Quilt in a Day. Granted the strips were 21/2 inches, but shows the cut as you go method. It was relatively easy. I'm going to the 11/2 strips one day!

Eleanor Burns' Log Cabin in a Day book is a great resource~~ :)