Welcome back, quilters! It’s time to put together our Log Cabin blocks – but don’t worry if you’re still finishing your blocks because this quilt-along is all about having fun and enjoying the process of sewing together. As a bonus, we all just might be learning some new tricks from each other along the way!
If you’re just joining us, today is Part 3 of the 2023 AQS & AccuQuilt-Along Series: Scrappy Star Log Cabin Quilt. You can find all the shows on this project on AccuQuilt’s website, Facebook page and YouTube channel.
You can also find blog posts on the AQS and AccuQuilt blogs to help you with every step. Last week, we focused on sewing together the Log Cabin blocks, so we could put it all together today.
Layout
If you’re following the pattern for the GO! Scrappy Star Log Cabin Quilt as I am, you need a total of 16 blocks finishing to 11”.
My partner in all things quilty, AccuQuilt Cutting Expert Pam Heller, is making a larger version, using 24 blocks finishing to 12”. I’ll be going over both layouts here, but you should also be sure you have downloaded the free pattern for the basic project.
I love using a design wall to put up my blocks, so I can take a step back and get a good look at them, but this is a fairly new addition to my quilting life. For years, I’ve used the floor, the dining room table, the kitchen island and even my bed to lay out quilt blocks.
If you’re looking for a DIY solution, large pieces of batting or flannel-backed vinyl tablecloths work really well!
Here’s a picture of the pattern's layout:
You may not realize it, but the Log Cabin block can be used to create many different looks. Here are a couple of different layouts I came up with using Electric Quilt 8 (EQ8) Quilt Design Software recently, starting with a straight-on traditional look.
Here’s a sample of a diagonal layout with and without an alternate block added:
Our project arranges the blocks to give a Sawtooth Star look to the center, but here are some other starry looks:
Finally, here are two different medallion style layouts:
Since Pam is adding extra rows to her quilt, here’s a sample of what that’s going to look like this:
Basically, she’s added an extra row on both the top and bottom of the quilt. She's using that to emphasize the star effect in the center, making it almost appear to be a medallion style quilt.
Commit To Sewing
Once you commit to your final layout, you’ll quickly be able to sew the blocks into rows, and then sew your rows together. Give it a good press and you’re done for the week!
What’s Next
Next week, we’ll be adding a border (or two) and talking about quilting and binding, so be sure to join us!
Don’t Forget to Share
If you haven’t joined the AQS Quilting Project Parade Facebook Group yet, be sure you do! It’s a great place to engage with other quilters and be inspired by everyone’s projects. Pam and I will be sharing our pictures as well, and jumping on to answer questions during the week.
You can also share on other social media platforms. No matter where you share, be sure to use the hashtag #AQSews so that we can find you! Now, sit back, relax and enjoy the process!