If you’re a quilter looking to explore the creative potential of the classic log cabin quilt block, this Log Cabin Variation – Scrappy Half Log Cabin or Quarter Log Cabin Quilt Block Tutorial is perfect for you! In this tutorial, we’ll walk through the process of making two popular variations: the scrappy half log cabin and the quarter log cabin quilt blocks.
These variations bring a fresh twist to the traditional log cabin design, allowing for more color play, improvisation, and a unique look in each quilt you create.
The scrappy half log cabin is a fun variation that uses up smaller fabric scraps, making each block distinctive. The quarter log cabin brings a more angular look to your quilt, with its asymmetrical design offering a modern take on this beloved block.
Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just beginning your quilting journey, these blocks are beginner-friendly and an excellent way to play with color, fabric texture, and layout.
In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to choose fabrics, cut and assemble the blocks, and lay them out for a dynamic quilt top. Let’s dive in and start creating a beautiful scrappy quilt with these exciting log cabin variations.
1. Choosing Fabrics for Your Log Cabin Variations
Choosing the right fabric for your Log Cabin Variation – Scrappy Half Log Cabin or Quarter Log Cabin Quilt Block Tutorial is the first and arguably most important step in creating a visually striking quilt. For both the scrappy half log cabin and the quarter log cabin variations, you’ll want to gather a variety of fabrics, from large prints to small blenders.
- Start by selecting fabrics that contrast well. This will help to highlight the different sections of your block, especially with the scrappy half log cabin, where each strip can feature a different fabric.
- Don’t be afraid to use bold, vibrant colors in your quilt. The scrappy nature of the block makes it ideal for experimenting with colors that might seem too loud in a more structured quilt design.
- For a more cohesive look, you can choose a color palette and stick to it, but feel free to mix in neutral tones to break up the bright colors.
- For the quarter log cabin, it’s best to choose fabrics that have a gradient effect from dark to light. This will create a strong visual impact, giving the block a sense of movement.
- Mix and match different textures and weights of fabric. This adds an additional layer of interest to the quilt and makes each block feel unique.
- Keep your stash organized! Having your fabric scraps sorted by color or size can help you quickly pull fabrics for your blocks, making the process more streamlined.
2. Cutting and Assembling the Scrappy Half Log Cabin Block
Now that your fabrics are chosen, it’s time to start cutting and assembling your scrappy half log cabin block. The half log cabin is a variation that builds on one side of a central square, resulting in a distinctive asymmetrical design.
- Begin by cutting a central square for each block. This can be any size, but a 2.5-inch square works well for smaller blocks, while a 4-inch square is perfect for larger blocks.
- From your fabric scraps, cut strips that are 2 inches wide. These strips will form the “logs” that build up around the central square.
- Start by sewing one strip to one side of the square. Press the seam open, then trim the strip even with the edges of the square.
- Continue sewing strips to just two adjacent sides of the square. This creates the “half” effect in the log cabin block, leaving the other sides open.
- As you add more strips, keep varying the fabric choices to achieve that scrappy look. The more random your fabric selection, the more interesting the final block will be.
- Once you have added enough strips to create the desired block size, give it a final press and square it up, trimming off any excess fabric.
3. Constructing the Quarter Log Cabin Block
The quarter log cabin block offers a slightly different take on the traditional log cabin design, with strips added to just one corner of the central square, resulting in a more diagonal effect across the block.
- Start by cutting a small central square, similar to the half log cabin block. A 2.5-inch square is a good size for this.
- From your chosen fabrics, cut strips that are 2 inches wide. These strips will be added in a specific sequence to create the quarter log cabin design.
- Begin by sewing one strip to the bottom edge of the central square. Press the seam open and trim any excess fabric.
- Next, sew a strip to the right-hand side of the square, and press open.
- Continue sewing strips to the bottom and right-hand sides of the block until the block reaches your desired size. The quarter log cabin block builds diagonally, so be mindful of the colors and prints you are adding.
- The finished block should have a strong diagonal emphasis, creating a dynamic and eye-catching effect in your quilt layout.
4. Layout and Design Tips for Your Quilt
Now that you have a selection of scrappy half log cabin and quarter log cabin blocks, it’s time to start thinking about the overall layout of your quilt. Both of these block styles offer lots of design possibilities.
- For a more traditional layout, you can arrange the blocks in rows or columns, alternating between the two block styles for variety.
- If you want a more modern look, consider a diagonal layout. This is particularly striking with the quarter log cabin blocks, as the diagonal lines will create a sense of movement across the quilt.
- Experiment with rotating the blocks. By rotating the scrappy half log cabin blocks, you can create interesting secondary patterns that emerge in the quilt top.
- For a completely scrappy look, don’t be afraid to mix in other types of blocks. The log cabin variation blocks pair well with solid squares or simple four-patch blocks.
- When laying out your quilt top, step back periodically and view it from a distance. This will help you see how the colors and patterns are interacting.
- Once you’re satisfied with the layout, sew the blocks together in rows, pressing the seams open or to the side as needed.
FAQ
What is a log cabin variation quilt block?
A log cabin variation is a twist on the traditional log cabin quilt block. Instead of building fabric strips around all four sides of a central square, variations like the scrappy half log cabin and quarter log cabin focus on building strips on only two or one sides, respectively, creating a more asymmetrical design.
How do I choose fabrics for a scrappy log cabin quilt?
Choose fabrics with a mix of prints, solids, and textures. The key to a scrappy half log cabin is variety, so don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors and prints. For the quarter log cabin, fabrics with a gradient from dark to light work particularly well.
Can I mix other block types with log cabin variations?
Yes! Mixing other block types like four-patch or solid squares can add extra interest to your quilt layout. The log cabin variation blocks are quite versatile and can be paired with many different block styles.
How should I quilt a log cabin variation quilt?
For quilting, straight-line quilting that echoes the lines of the blocks is a great choice. You can also try free-motion quilting if you want to add some curves or more intricate patterns to contrast with the angular shapes of the blocks.
What size should my blocks be?
Block size can vary depending on your project. For smaller quilts or wall hangings, 8-inch blocks might be ideal, while larger quilts might call for 12-inch or even 16-inch blocks.
What is the best way to press seams in a log cabin quilt block?
Pressing seams is a matter of preference. Pressing seams to the side can add stability to the quilt top, while pressing them open can reduce bulk at seam intersections.
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Conclusion
In this Log Cabin Variation – Scrappy Half Log Cabin or Quarter Log Cabin Quilt Block Tutorial, we explored two exciting twists on the classic log cabin block. These variations offer endless possibilities for creativity and fabric play, making them perfect for both novice and experienced quilters. Whether you prefer the scrappy, improvisational feel of the half log cabin or the structured look of the quarter log cabin, these blocks will make a stunning addition to your next quilt project.
PATTERN HERE
We’d love to hear your thoughts on these log cabin variation blocks! Feel free to share your experiences and suggestions in the comments below, and let us know what other quilting tutorials you’d like to see. Happy quilting!
