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How to Sew a Log Cabin Quilt Block
The Log Cabin quilt block is a timeless classic that has been popular for generations. Built by adding fabric strips around a center square in rounds, this versatile block can be arranged in countless ways — checkerboard, diamond, barn raising, and more — to create stunning quilts!
Materials Needed
- Fabric strips in various colors and prints
- Rotary cutter, cutting mat, and quilting ruler
- Sewing machine and thread
- Iron and ironing board
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut the center square. Choose a fabric for the center and cut it to your desired size. For a 12" finished block, cut a 4" center square.
- Cut the first strip. Choose a contrasting fabric and cut a strip longer than the side of the center square it will attach to. For a 4" center square, cut a strip 2" wide and 6" long.
- Attach the first strip. Place the strip right side up on the center square, aligning the raw edges along one side. Pin in place and sew with a ¼" seam allowance.
- Press the strip away from the center square with your iron.
- Continue adding strips, working clockwise or counterclockwise around the center square. Trim each strip to the correct length before attaching it. Press each strip away from the center as you go.
- Keep building rounds until the block reaches your desired size.
- Press the completed block well to set the seams and create a smooth, flat surface.
Repeat for as many blocks as needed. Arrange the blocks in different orientations to create checkerboard, diamond, or barn raising designs. Once all blocks are sewn, join them together to complete your beautiful Log Cabin quilt!
How to Resize Quilt Blocks
The first step in modifying any quilt block is to decide on your finished block size. You can base this on doubling a pattern, cutting it in half, or working with your available fabric.
Note: When working from a pattern's cutting instructions, remove the seam allowance before scaling. For example, if your pattern calls for 3½″ squares, subtract the seam allowance (½″), double the finished size (3″ → 6″), then add the seam allowance back (½″) — giving you a 6½″ cut piece.
Resizing Square Blocks
Add ½″ to your finished block measurement. For a 4″ finished square, cut a 4½″ square of fabric.
Resizing Rectangular Blocks
Add ½″ to both the length and width. To double a 3″ × 4″ block, cut a 6½″ × 8½″ rectangle.
Resizing Half-Square Triangle Blocks
Add 7/8″ to the desired finished block size. For a 4″ finished HST block, cut 4⅞″ squares.
Resizing Quarter Square Triangle Blocks
Add 1¼″ to the desired finished block size. For a 4″ finished block, cut 5¼″ squares.
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