Folded Log Cabin Class Photos. . .

Yesterday I taught the Folded Log Cabin technique I previously blogged about here.  The students enjoyed the technique and the texture it creates.

One of the pleasures of teaching is observing the many styles and tastes of students.  This student's blocks have a subtle, elegant look in neutrals,

and this student's work was vibrant and full of energy.  I was unable to capture the blocks of my other student as I didn't get my camera out soon enough.  Bad me :(.  I have to remember to have the camera out as soon as class begins.  I'll do better next time (I hope).

This student completed her three blocks and is ready to add this green for borders and sashing.  I like being the observer during class, seeing the students' progression, and appreciating how each individual learns, works, and participates.  The more I teach the more my eyes open to the idea that there is no right or wrong in quilting.  There is just the satisfaction of creating.  I am glad that I am able to facilitate that process.


Please view my "Classes" page to check out my upcoming classes.


Until next time,

Friday Finishes - Folded Log Cabin Complete!

I really love this Friday Finishes column.  I am getting so many projects done!  Here's another one to add to my completed column.

Now how did I get here?  When last I wrote, I had added the sashing and borders.  So quilting is next.  This folding technique creates a lot of layering and body for the blocks.  Quilting of the blocks is not necessary nor is it necessary to add batting.  However, due to the thickness of the blocks, batting is needed under the borders to even it up, so to speak.

The batting needs to be pieced to the quilt's backside.  I cut four strips that were about 2" wider than the quilt's edge and whipstitched them to the blocks as seen above.  Now the quilt's depth is even.

Rather than quilt with stitches I chose to quilt with beads.  Again, because of the weight of the blocks, the quilting required is limited as the quilt will hang nicely.  I chose to use the block center fabric for the binding.  And whala, I'm done!  A very fun project with lots of possibilities for design.  The other color scenario I did is not yet quilted as I have not decided what to do yet.  Sometimes you just have to sit on something for a while to become inspired to the next step.  I'll keep you posted on that finish as well.


Happy Friday,

Folded Log Cabin Instructions Continues. . .

Putting the blocks together to see the final outcome is exciting, especially since I'm putting them together with two different fabric variations.

But I'm getting ahead of myself.  The blocks need to be trimmed up before they can be put together.  Measuring all of the blocks, my common measurement is 6 3/8".  

Line a square ruler over two sides at the 6 3/8" mark.  Trim muslin on open two sides.  Turn block around and trim other two sides.

Squared up square looks like this.

To join squares together, butt the edges up and zigzag stitch them together using the widest stitch.  No need to pin.  Once all squares are joined, sashing in pieced over them.

Place 2 1/2" x 6 3/8" sashing strip at zigzag line, right sides together.  Baste in place to confirm block seam line is covered.  Once satisfied, sew in place.

Here are the two variations as they stand with sashing in place.

With first seam sewn, press sashing over and edge under to cover the seam on the other side.  Seam can be hand sewn with a blind hem stitch or, as I did, via machine applique stitch with smoke invisible thread.

Add the borders making sure to cover the block seams.  Border strips are 3" wide.

This is the first version.

And here is the other variation.  Do you have a favorite?  Love to hear your opinion.  Quilting is next.

Until next time,

Folded Log Cabin Instructions. . .

The folded log cabin blocks are now complete and ready for sashing and borders.

Here are the instructions to make a courthouse steps block with this technique.


The fabric requirements are:  muslin for block foundation; fabric for square centers; and, six fabrics for rows.  I cut an 8" square for each block from the muslin.  From each of the striped fabrics cut a 2" x WOF strip.  An additional strip is needed for the outer fifth and sixth fabrics.  Press each strip in half.  Cut a 2 1/2" square from the center fabric.  

Cut 4 - 2 1/2" strips from the first row fabric.

Place the center square into the center of the muslin foundation.  Lay one 2 1/2" strip on the center square with raw edges matching outer square edge, folded side in.  Sew 1/2" inside the folded edge.

I used the left edge of my presser foot as my seam guide.

Lay a second 2 1/2" strip on the opposite side, matching up the edge as previously described.  Sew.

Add the third and fourth 2 1/2" strips on the remaining opposite sides.  Square should still measure 2 1/2."

The remaining rows are sewn as follows:  lay the assigned strip 3/8" from the edge of the previous row's folded edge.  I recommend using a 1"x6" ruler for measuring.  Each strip needs to be measured as you go around the square.

When sewing, begin with a 1/4" tail.  When seam is complete, cut the strip 1/4" beyond the square edge.  Do not sew down the extra 1/4" of fabric.

This is what each strip will look like as sewn on.

Continue sewing strips around, remembering to measure each strip and sew 1/2" from the folded edge.

Each seam should be catching about 1/8" of the previous row's edge.

This is the 3rd row completed,

and the 4th,

the 5th,

and the 6th.   I'll trim up and join the blocks next time.


Until next time,

On a Whim Project. . .

While in Tacoma last August, I saw a folded log cabin quilt I really loved.  When I got home I collected the fabrics and put them aside to begin at some future date.  Yesterday that all changed when I came across a book on the technique.

So I gathered my fabrics,

Stripes for my blocks,

and two color sets for my blocks centers and borders.  This will be a 3-block wallhanging.  I will make two wallhangings with the same fabrics for the blocks and these two different color sets for the block centers and borders.

Here's the results for the first blocks.

I'm enjoying the technique and will definitely have to teach a class.


Until next time,