Cactus In The Cabin Quilt Sew-Along: TRADITIONAL LOG CABIN BLOCKS |
Welcome back to the Cactus In The Cabin Quilt Sew-Along – we’re thrilled you’re joining us for the next chapter! |
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The Cactus In The Cabin Quilt features two stunning blocks: the classic Log Cabin Block and the unique Cactus Log Cabin Block. This month we will be creating the Classic or Traditional Log Cabin Blocks using the Creative Grids Log Cabin Trim Tool 6" & 12" Finished Blocks Ruler. The Cactus In The Cabin Quilt Pattern is written for using the Creative Grids Log Cabin Trim Tool 6" & 12" Finished Blocks Ruler. This is going to give you perfectly trimmed blocks and it is fun to use! |
Let's get started..... The cutting directions for your strips of fabric or your “logs” are included in the pattern. I experimented with both precutting my logs and strip piecing directly onto long strips. What I found was that my piecing turned out more accurate when I precut the logs. Having them cut to size ahead of time made it easier to know exactly how each strip was supposed to fit. After each “round,” you’ll trim using the Creative Grids Log Cabin Trim Tool 6" & 12" Finished Blocks Ruler. This means that even if your seam allowance is slightly off, your block will still come out the perfect size every time. |
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For the 1st round, you will start with your center square fabric. You will then add the first strip of fabric or "log". For the best results, set your seam with the iron first, then press it away from the center square for a crisp, clean finish. |
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Next, add your second, third and forth log. Setting your seam and pressing the seam away from the center square after each log. You can work in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction—just be sure to stay consistent with whichever option you choose. I followed Cam's instructions and proceeded in a clockwise direction. Your fabric strips—or “logs”—can all be the same fabric or a mix of different ones. You can also switch up the colors. For this particular pattern I recommend keeping the fabric strips consistent in color to best showcase the design. |
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Ok, our first "round" of four "logs" is complete. Now it's time to trim. Align the Creative Grids Log Cabin Trim Tool 6" & 12" Finished Blocks Ruler with the center square and your seams. Don’t worry if things don’t match up perfectly. The ruler gives you plenty of guide lines, so just focus on what feels best to match up or center, and your block will still look beautiful. Trim the right side and the top. |
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Next, rotate your block. Align your ruler again and trim the right side and the top. |
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Whether your piecing was spot-on or a little off, you now have a perfectly sized block ready for the next round of strips. |
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Time to add the second round to your block. You will do this exactly like you did the first round. |
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After attaching all four logs in the second round, it’s time to trim again. Just follow the same steps you used in round one. |
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It’s time to add the final round of logs! Be sure to set and press your seams after each strip of fabric or log for a crisp finish. |
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Now, on this last trimming, you will be using all four of the ruler edges to square up your block. Check your alignment by matching the ruler lines with your seams. |
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Once again, don’t worry if your seam allowances aren’t perfect. When you trim all four sides to square up your block, it will measure a perfect 12 ½" unfinished square! |
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My Oops Block Tip:
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Here is my Traditional Log Cabin Block in my quilt colors! See you next month for the Cactus Blocks! |
Cactus In The Cabin Quilt Sew-Along Schedule: 8/05/2025 - Month 1: Fabric Requirements/Selection |
All monthly Cactus In The Cabin Quilt Sew-Along posts will appear on our blog. This is not a Zoom class or a specific time to check in. Sew at your own pace as you follow along on the Sew-Along schedule. The Cactus In The Cabin Quilt Pattern is required to participate as no cutting/sizing information will be given. Cactus In The Cabin Starter Fabric Bundles are available. Our Bear Creek Quilting Company Exclusive Sew-Alongs private Facebook Group is available to join. Be sure to complete all the questions and agree to the group rules or the automated-moderator may deny your request to join. |
Questions?? Email us at sales@BearCreekQuiltingCompany.com |
![]() and the BCQC Team |