How to Make a Log Cabin Quilt Block: Our Top Tips and Tricks

The Log Cabin quilt block is one of the most classic and well-known patterns in the quilting world. Even the name evokes a traditional, cozy feel! If you want to boost your skills and feel like a true quilter, then learning how to make a Log Cabin quilt block is a must!

While the block itself is very traditional, there are many ways to make it. There is no “right” way to quilt, after all: the entire craft was created as a way of using up small scraps of fabric leftover from clothing and bedding. 

If you have a ready-to-sew Log Cabin quilt kit, then read this guide to familiarize yourself with the process. Here are our top tips for how to make a Log Cabin quilt block!

Basic Tips

Whether you’re learning how to make a Log Cabin quilt or any other type of quilt, you should always make these steps a habit.

• Learn the difference between lengthwise, crosswise, and bias grains. Like paper, fabric has a “grain”. Essentially, if you sew fabrics along the lengthwise or crosswise grains, they’re less likely to stretch than if you sewed them along the bias. Make sure you have a reliable rotary cutter, ruler, and mat for accurate cutting.

• The higher the quality of your fabric, the better your project will go. Cheap fabrics with loose weaves will not only fray and be harder to sew, but will also not last a long time. If you’re going to pour hours of work into a project, you’re going to want it to last. That’s why we source only the highest quality fabrics from top American brands!

• Iron, iron, iron! Those seams aren’t going to lay flat themselves! Every seam allowance MUST be pressed into place if you want to keep your quilt neat — this extra effort can make all the difference.

Assemble Your Pieces

For a traditional Log Cabin quilt block, you’ll need a variety of strips, called logs, that spiral out around a center square. There are hundreds of ways you can do this, but precut fabric strips can make the process a little easier.

If you are using a specific pattern, make sure you follow it carefully and cut pieces as directed.

Iron as You Sew

As you add each log, press it out from the center square before adding the next log.

Sew Logs and Turn

One common technique is the Courthouse Steps version of a Log Cabin. In this design, you’ll sew strips to opposite sides of the center square, press the logs open, and then add logs to the remaining sides and press. Continue adding strips in pairs while alternating directions. 

Probably the most classic technique is working your way around the center square, adding logs. Press after each log addition. This creates more of a spiral look.

If the process isn’t coming together for you, don’t worry! Creating the perfect Log Cabin quilt takes practice and patience. Check out this tutorial from Lisa Ruble for step-by-step instructions!

We hope these tips helped you learn how to make a Log Cabin quilt! Keep up with Sit n’ Sew Fabrics online for more fun quilting tips and quality supplies.