How to Make a Log Cabin Quilt Block

This year, for the quilt guild I am apart of, I am providing instructions for how to make a different quilt block each month. For the month of August, we learned about the classic Log Cabin Block. 

For a 12 inch finished block (12.5 inch unfinished), you will need to cut the following:

Center Square  (A) 2 1/2 inches x 2 1/2 inches

Light Strips     (D) 2 1/2 inches x 4 1/2 inches

                        (E) 2 1/2 inches x 6 1/2 inches

                        (H) 2 1/2 inches x 8 1/2 inches

                        (I)   2 1/2 inches x 10 1/2 inches

Dark Strips      (B) 2 1/2 inches x 2 1/2 inches

                        (C) 2 1/2 inches x 4 1/2 inches

                        (F) 2 1/2 inches x 6 1/2 inches

                        (G) 2 1/2 inches x 8 1/2 inches

                        (J) 2 1/2 inches x 10 1/2 inches

                         (K) 2 1/2 inches x 12 1/2 inches

Using light and dark fabrics can help create that classic diagonal division that the Log Cabin is famous for. The center square is traditionally made out of an accent color that stands out from the light and dark strips. Or as an alternative, it can be made out of a lighter fabric. 

Starting with the center block, sew the strips together in alphabetical order. Follow the diagram for placement. Press as you go towards the outside of the block.

You can think of it like starting in the center and spiraling counter clockwise outward. You just have to keep track of which way is up. 

If you are making a lot of log cabin blocks, this is something that is easily chain pieced. This is also a great block for jelly rolls. 

If you have any questions, please leave a comment below! 

Check back each month for a new How-To of quilt blocks! To see the other block, just search my blog for Quilt Guild Block of the Month.

If you would like a PDF version of these instructions, please check out Group #2 of the How-To Block of the Month Downloads.

(Although this block is a classic and can go by many names, as I have mentioned before, these block designs come from the book 5500 Quilt Block Designs by Maggie Malone. (c) 2003.)

Have fun quilting!