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,