Make This: Log Cabin Quilt Block Tutorial
Hello, everyone! Doesn’t it seem like a perfect day to learn something new? Today, we’re going to show you how to make the classic Log Cabin quilt block! This is a must-know for any quilter, and it’s a super versatile block that can take on many different looks, depending on fabric colors and placement.
We’re going with the classic size, so start with seven different prints, each cut into 2.5″ strips. Some prints are obviously not used as much as others, but if you want to make more than one block, you will need lots of strips!
Fabrics are from an assortment of designers, including Anna Maria Horner, Joel Dewberry, Bari J, and Maude Asbury. We chose a Cotton + Steel print for our center square, then went from lighter prints in the middle to darker prints on the outside. For one 14″ square Log Cabin block, cut your strips according to the picture below.
Start assembling the block in the center, with the two squares. As usual, sew a 1/4″ seam and press seams toward the darker fabric.
Next, sew the top and bottom strips on.
And now, the left and right sides fit! Sew those two strips on next.
Now, the next level of top and bottom strips go on. You can probably see how things work by now. Continue working your way from the center of the block outward.
Now, add left and right strips.
Add top and bottom strips.
At this point, you will only have one side remaining to sew to the block. Sew it on, press the seam, and you’re done!
So pretty! You can build a quilt in any size you want with this block. Refer to our Quilt Sizes Printable for popular basic quilt sizes.
As always, leave any questions or comments for us below. We can’t wait to see what you make! Tag us @theclothparcel and #theclothparcel on Instagram, or share on our Facebook page. You can also follow our blog by email– just add your email address at the top of the left sidebar!
This pattern was featured in FaveQuilts’ collection of 12-Inch Quilt Block Patterns!
This is such pretty fabric, and perfectly suited for the log cabin design. Haven’t made one of these in quite awhile, but now I’m thinking….maybe!
Love the pretty fabrics you’re using. I’ve always wanted to make a quilt, but never tried it. Not sure I have the patience…lol. Thanks for sharing this on Merry Monday.
Oh, I love the colors and patterns on your quilt blocks…so beautiful!
Thank you!
This log cabin quilt is just beautiful. Can’t wait to get started on one.
Thank you for your great website.
Can the log cabin block be made using a jellyroll? Thanks for your response.
You can absolutely use a jelly roll!
Hello, love the block, haven’t done log cabin for years, may I ask what are the fabrics please, they are just beautiful.
They would go into my grand-daughters colour scheme beautifully.
Thanks in anticipation, Lorraine Hitchens
Hi Lorraine, it’s been a couple of years since we made this, so I’m not sure how many of these prints are still available.
The pink deer print is from the Gypsy Girl line from Moda.
The blue geometric print is from the Birch Farm line by Joel Dewberry for FreeSpirit.
The blue birds on branches is from the Petal and Plume line by Bari J.
The white background print for the center square is a print from Cotton+Steel, not sure which line.
All the rest are by Anna Maria Horner, not sure which lines.
How many log cabin blocks can you get out of a jelly roll? Would you need two jelly rolls for a queen size?
You would likely need more than two jelly rolls for a queen size quilt. We haven’t written a pattern for a queen size log cabin, so I couldn’t tell you for sure!
This tutorial is the easiest to understand that I’ve seen. Breaks it all down very simply. Thanks!
Hi! New to your site! Is there a PDF of this log cabin block? I would love to print it! Thank you so much! I love your site!
There isn’t a PDF for this particular block, but most of our newer tutorials do include a printable page.
Thanks so much!!