Making the Log Cabin Square

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Log Cabin Center Block Log Cabin Center Block Log Cabin Center Block

Making the log cabin square is easy. It can be anywhere from one to three colors, depending on your preferences and the individual project requirements. Pinning is usually not necessary.

Remember, ALL SEAMS ARE 1/2 INCH.

Using a Paper Square
The log cabin square starts with a small 5-1/2" center square. I use a 5-1/2" paper square to eyeball size before cutting.

5.5-inch Square
Voila. Behold the square!

Unopened Strips on Small Square
Add the first pair of strips.

Strips and Square Ready for Trimming
Keep the strips closed...

Trimming the Top
...as you trim them.

Trimming the Bottom
Hold the rotary ruler firmly in place as you trim. You may have to run the razor back and forth a few times to cut through both layers.

Trimming the Bottom
Just flip the rotary ruler around...

The Bottom Trimmed
...to trim the bottom.

The Bottom Trimmed
Open the strips out, and finger press.

Added Second Pair of Strips
Add the second pair of strips...

Trimming Second Pair of Strips
...trim...

Finger Pressing
...open out, and finger press.

Finger Pressing
Nice and flat.

Third Pair of Strips
Add the third pair of strips.

Trimming the Third Pair of Strips
Trim...

Third Pair of Strips Trimmed
...open out...

Third Pair of Strips Finger Pressed
...and finger press.

Fourth Pair of Strips
Add the fourth pair of strips...

Fourth Pair of Strips Trimmed
...trim...

Fourth Pair of Strips Opened Out
...open out...

Pressed Log Cabin Block
...and then press (as in, on an ironing board) the entire block.

Pressed Log Cabin Block
If you want a more dimensional look...

Pressed Log Cabin Block
...then all seams in the log cabin square should be pressed outward, like a volcano.

Pressed Log Cabin Block with Flat Seams
If you want a flat look (which is easier to quilt)...

Pressed Log Cabin Block, Flat Seams Showing
...press the seams open, as shown. This also gives you smaller seam bumps. (Thanks to an anonymous visitor for the tip!)

Finished Log Cabin Block
All done! Time to take a break and relax. Looks nice, doesn't it?

Making and Using the Star/Sky Blocks

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