Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Good old basic log cabin blocks

My new project is one that I have been wanting to do for a long time, the basic log cabin block. That doesn't mean my layout will be basic, but I won't know that until I have made lots more blocks. I may still add one more row of logs since this block will only finish at 7" right now. Then it would finish at 9". In a log cabin block the center is typically red or a dark color anyway but I want the larger side of the block (the one with the last 2 strips) to be light so I started with a light center. I want this to be a spring log cabin. I will make some blocks with even lighter darks.
I used some more of the pencil boxes that were on sale to store each of the sizes of logs and centers. I put a piece of scotch tape on the box and wrote the number on it. When the project is over I can remove the tape and have an unmarked box.
It is warm this morning and light rain. We are in for colder weather after today but at least it won't be the snow that so many other places got.

16 comments:

Cathi said...

I'm really intrigued by your spring log cabin blocks. Can't wait to see more!
The box idea is brilliant. What a great way to keep your pieces for the log cabin blocks organized.

Martha Tsihlas said...

Thank you Wanda, I will check JF for the curved templates. You are so organized, you are inspiring me!! Makes things easier, doesn't it? Thanks again....Happy sewing.

Wanda said...

Oh Wanda...Log Cabin is something I can relate to! I paperpieced hundreds of 6 inch ones for my huge quilt. I think I could do the log cabin in my sleep! I can't wait to see this progress

Jane Moxey said...

Yay for cutting the strips out to length before you sew! I made my best ever LC quilt doing it that way. I'm looking forward to following your progress on this one:) And such a good idea with the little bins to organize them all!

Unknown said...

So that is what the light strips were for, the blocks look terrific! I always love a log cabin. I like your organization for the blocks with the pencil boxes. A great idea! This one I may have to give a try.

Elsie Montgomery said...

I'm off to the store to get some nice flat boxes. Right now, my stash of strips and pre-cut sizes is out of control. Thanks once more for a good idea, Wanda!

Elaine Adair said...

Hey - great minds think alike! (You DO know I am taking liberties here about MY less-than-great mind?). My whole living room floor is taken up with a very pleasing LG, set in a new way (for me). I'll post it soon. What I am thinking of, is quilting the center of the LG, then when the border inspiration hits me, ADDing that border, already quilted, QAUG style. This would reduce the bulk, and I'd get started quilting soon!

I put my strips on a large tray, since they were not already cut. ANd for the first time (duh, what took me so long) I cut them all length of fabric, which was a GREAT improvement.

This will be another beauty!

Millie said...

I'll give you a little hint about the tape. Fold one corner over itself, and it'll be easier to remove when you're done.

Joyce said...

Love the log cabins. and great storage idea. I need more mid sized boxes for my studio.

Quiltdivajulie said...

Log Cabin is another one of those that I've always wanted to make but never got beyond 1 or 2 blocks. Your cutting to length ahead of time would resolve one of my problems.

Do you press the seams with an iron or do you finger press as you go? (another process issue)

LOVE watching you work!

Karen said...

The Log Cabin is one of my very favorite blocks...so many things you can do with them...and oh so traditional;)

Julie Bagamary said...

The log cabin quilt is beautiful.
I like the box idea too. I use plastic shoe boxed but use masking tape to mark it since I like how easily it is removed.

Diana said...

I, too, love log cabin quilts. I can't wait to see your non-basic layout!

Gari in AL said...

I love your light colored log cabins. I think I might like to do one. I am currently working on my first log cabin in black and white and am loving it.

Jean said...

These are very pretty...I am sure whatever setting you come up with will be awesome!!! You do have a batik stash to rival the best quilt store!!! Remember if you ever decide you have too many, I am only a state away!!!! I could be there in a flash! LOL

Dionne said...

Your organization is inspired! Thank you for sharing!
Cheers,
Dionne