Log Cabin Quilt Layouts: 8 Ways to Arrange a Log Cabin Block
The Log Cabin is one of the most versatile traditional quilt blocks. Its simple construction makes it suitable for scrap quilting, but its real appeal becomes apparent when several blocks are placed together.
By rotating the same Log Cabin block, you can create diagonal lines, diamonds, zigzags, pinwheels and other secondary patterns. You do not need to change the block itself. The layout does most of the work.
In this post, I am sharing eight Log Cabin quilt layouts to show how one block can produce very different results.
A print friendly collection of the Log Cabin layouts shown in this blog post can be downloaded here.
LINK: Shop the Log Cabin foundation paper piecing pattern
LINK: Log Cabin Tutorial Block using traditional piecing
LINK: Shop the Log Cabin foundation paper piecing pattern
LINK: Log Cabin Tutorial Block using traditional piecing
How does a Log Cabin quilt block work?
A traditional Log Cabin block begins with a centre square. Strips are then added around the centre in rounds, gradually building the block outwards.
Many Log Cabin blocks use lighter fabrics on one side and darker or more colourful fabrics on the other. This creates a diagonal division through the block. When multiple blocks are rotated and arranged together, those light and dark areas connect to form a larger pattern across the quilt.
The image below shows the same block as the one above but the placement of light and dark fabrics creates a completely different look.
LINK: Shop the Log Cabin foundation paper piecing pattern
The blocks can be made with:
- Two contrasting colours
- A limited colour palette
- Light and dark scraps
- Rainbow fabrics
- Coordinated prints
- Low-volume backgrounds
- Fabrics collected from your stash
Strong contrast makes the secondary layout easier to see, but a softer palette can create a more blended effect.
1. Blocks facing the same direction
The simplest arrangement is to place every Log Cabin block in the same direction. The repeated diagonal division creates movement across the quilt without requiring a complicated layout.
2. Diagonal Stripe layout
In a Diagonal Stripe layout, the blocks are rotated so the light and dark areas create continuous diagonal bands across the quilt.
3. Barn Raising layout
The Barn Raising arrangement is one of the most recognisable Log Cabin quilt layouts. Blocks are rotated around a central point so the contrasting fabrics form a large diamond.
4. Chevron layout
Pairing mirrored Log Cabin blocks creates a series of V shapes or chevrons. The direction of the chevrons can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally, depending on how the blocks are positioned.
5. ZigZag layout
The ZigZag layout uses alternating block directions to create bold zigzag lines across the quilt.
6. Pinwheel layout
Arrange four Log Cabin blocks around a central point to create a pinwheel or windmill shape. Repeat these groups of four throughout the quilt for a design with plenty of movement.
7. Diamond layout
The Blocks are arranged so the light and dark blocks are grouped together to create a diamond shape.
8. Flying Geese layout
Arrange the blocks so that the Flying Geese shape is created.
9. Star Layout (Bonus)
I know the blog post says 8 Layouts, but I have bonus one. This one requires a mix of whole blocks made in colours and whole blocks made in background.
Fabric choices for Log Cabin quilts
Log Cabin blocks are ideal for using scraps because each round can be made from a different fabric. Narrow strips left over from other projects are especially useful.
For a clear secondary design, separate your fabrics into two groups before sewing. These could be:
- Light and dark
- Warm and cool
- Colourful and low volume
- Solid and patterned
- One colour family and a contrasting background
- Two different colour families
The fabrics within each group do not need to match. They simply need enough contrast for the two sides of the block to remain distinct.
If you are unsure about a fabric, photograph it beside the others and view the image in greyscale. A fabric that looks dark because of its colour may actually have a medium or light value.
Log Cabin Block Variations
Log Cabin blocks can be constructed using traditional piecing or foundation paper piecing. Foundation paper piecing is particularly useful when you want consistent strip widths, accurate blocks and neatly defined layout lines.
It also makes it possible to use narrow or irregular scraps that may be more difficult to cut into exact pieces for traditional piecing.
The Thimbles and Needles Log Cabin FPP patterns include multiple block sizes, allowing you to choose a size that suits anything from a mug rug or cushion to a full quilt.
LINK: Browse all Log Cabin foundation paper piecing patterns
LINK: Log Cabin Tutorial Block using traditional piecing
The next few images show variations on the Log Cabin block that are available on the website.
Image below shows the Curved Log Cabin foundation paper piecing pattern
This is the Off Centre Log Cabin FPP block. This is a similar the curved log cabin above but uses skinnier strips.
Link: Diamond in a Log Cabin Foundation Paper Piecing block
Link: Diamond Log Cabin Foundation Paper Piecing block
LINK: Quarter Log Cabin Foundation Paper Piecing Block 1
LINK: Quarter Log Cabin foundation paper piecing block 2
LINK: Hexagon Log Cabin Foundation Paper Piecing Pattern
LINK: Browse all Log Cabin foundation paper piecing patterns
A print friendly collection of the Log Cabin layouts shown in this blog post can be downloaded here.
One block, many possible quilts
The Log Cabin block shows how much difference a layout can make. A simple rotation can turn the same group of blocks into diamonds, furrows, chevrons, pinwheels or zigzags.
Before sewing your blocks together, take some time to experiment. Rotate individual blocks, rearrange the rows and photograph your favourite options. You may discover a layout that you had not originally considered.
Whether you use a carefully planned palette or fabrics collected from your scrap basket, the Log Cabin block gives you plenty of room to make the finished quilt your own.
LINK: Shop all Log Cabin foundation paper piecing patterns
LINK: Browse all geometric foundation paper piecing patterns
LINK: Log Cabin Tutorial Block using traditional piecing
