Creative Quilt Layouts For Classic Log Cabin Blocks
Plus Instructions for Making the Block!
Log Cabin quilts have been popular with quilters for generations. The blocks are simple to make and a great way to use scraps. Plus, they provide many design options.
Traditionally, the center squares are red and represent the hearth as the center of the home. Modern quilts often are made with other colors in the center and some substitute stars, hearts, or other pieced motifs for the squares.
Modern Log Cabin blocks from Threadbare Creations.
Block construction begins at the center square, and then rounds of strips (or logs) are sewn around the block until it reaches the correct size. While the logs are usually the same width as the center square, they can be thinner or thicker, providing more design options.
Examples of various log widths from Threadbare Creations.
Typically, the blocks are built with light values on one side and darks on the other. While there can be variations in value within each side, it’s the contrast between the two sides that makes the blocks so versatile. The resulting blocks can be arranged in many ways, creating interesting overall designs.
A vintage Log Cabin quilt in the Barn Raising layout found at Invaluable.
There are many other possible block variations as well. And, when you consider fabric styles, color options, and value variations, there are an unlimited number of designs you can create with Log Cabin blocks.
If all those options seem overwhelming, start with a standard block, decide on a color palette of lights and darks from either new fabric or scraps, and choose a layout for the overall quilt. The Barn Raising layout shown above is one of the most popular, as are those found in the chart below.
Chart adapted from one found at Quilt Social.
However, there are many more quilt designs you can create with Log Cabin blocks. American Patchwork & Quilting created an excellent article showing 30 Log Cabin block layout options. You may want to save this excellent resource for future reference.
- You’ll find a tutorial and tips for making Log Cabin blocks in several sizes here.
- There are many Log Cabin quilts and other projects inspired by the block to explore here.
- Learn more about the history of Log Cabin quilts in the interesting article found here at Threadbare Creations.
Image Source: The photo at the top of the page is from A Quilting Life.
