So true! The steam + "ironing" will bow your logs.
 

And there seems to be two camps on log cabins: those that want precision (Judy Martin, Marti Michell) and those that use the quick strip piecing method (Eleanor Burns, Mary Ellen Hopkins). For small blocks I like the precision for 12" blocks I like the strip piecing.

Another way to keep the logs straight is to cut your strips length of fabric rather than width of fabric b/c there is less stretch. Just square up after each round of logs and you will be okay.

I have taught several new quilters the log cabin pattern. the most important thing to do is check your measurements and square up your log block after each row is completed . By row I mean....Start with your center square sew on two light logs and two dark logs. At this point I measure to make sure my 1/4 inch is working and the block is square. I do the same after the next four logs are sewn on etc etc.....hope this helps

made my FIRST quilt -- king size log cabin with Eleanor Burns log cabin book---really like her books---second was Winning Hand queen size for camper---had a couple problems and called the 800 number in the books and got a lot of help---think she and her staff are the greatest, when I visit my sister in SanDiego area I always try and go to her store in San Marcos---great people there and very helpful

I Love Eleanor Burns Log Cabin Book
 

I used Eleanor Burns method of strip piecing and really loved it. It went together so easily.

Wish there were a "Like" button on these posts... I can sure sympathize with the "old days"!

Whether you decide to go with a strip/chain piecing method or cutting every piece separately, the best tip I can give you is the one I give my Learn to Quilt students: cut your last 2 pieces or strips 1/2" wider than everything else. You can always trim a block down but you can't make it bigger! This has saved many a block, especially for those who haven't yet mastered the scant quarter inch seam.

what I found to help me was to do all the same longs on all the blocks the same day, ie: round 4 blue log, do all round 4 logs, as I found one day I was doing a scant 1/4" and the next day a 1/4, I do strip piecing and it works for me, I love log cabin quilts, some of mine": http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...ns-t60783.html

I also make several blocks more than I need, My planed overs: so if one block is a tad too small or too big, I use it in another project, bed runner, nap quilt, wall hanging, or hot pads. hope this helps

If you are cutting accurately, and sewing accurately - maybe needing to pin the strip and the beginning and end, you shouldn't need to square up the quilt - well, at least theoretically speaking.

Gosh, I can't believe I'm so-o-o 'in the dark'. All these years of quilting and I've never heard or have seen the Log Cabin Trim Tool. I have a love for Log Cabin quilts also. One of these days I'll get my Star Log Cabin one put together. Have had the pattern and ALL the fabrics for eons. Too many other irons in the fire usually.

Oh I love gadgets. This one looks like something I would use! Thanks for the tip