The next sampler block is the log cabin. The Skill Builder Series log cabin post just went up, so most of your instructions will be over there. Fortunately I put the instructions at the top of the post, so you don’t have to scroll through all of the details to find them.

You can use either construction option. If you’re following the White & Bright layout for color placement, this block is orange. The block will finish at 10″, or 10 1/2″ before it is sewn into the quilt. Each complete round (four sides) of the block will be in the same fabric, and the rounds will alternate between background and block fabric, with the block fabric at the center and in the final round.

Option 1: Cut to Size

Since you’re making only one block, this option will work quite well, especially if you’d like to test the accuracy of your quarter inch seams. Using the cutting directions below, piece it as you would a courthouse steps block, adding fabrics to opposite sides of the squares rather than in a spiral.

Center square: Cut (1) 2 1/2″ block fabric square
Background fabric:
Cut (2) 1 1/2″ x 2 1/2″ strips
Cut (2) 1 1/2″ x 4 1/2″ strips
Cut (2) 1 1/2″ x 6 1/2″ strips
Cut (2) 1 1/2″ x 8 1/2″ strips
Block fabric:
Cut (2) 1 1/2″ x 4 1/2″ strips
Cut (2) 1 1/2″ x 6 1/2″ strips
Cut (2) 1 1/2″ x 8 1/2″ strips
Cut (2) 1 1/2″ x 10 1/2″ strips

(If you prefer to cut your strips slightly wider and then trim to size after each round (all four sides), cut them at 1 3/4″ wide and the same length shown above. The center square will remain the same size.)

Option 2: Chaining the Strip

This option will also work well, and with just two fabrics it will be very easy to cut. This is the best option if you prefer to cut fabric wider and trim to size to avoid problems with accurate quarter inch seams. You can piece this option in a spiral or on opposite sides as you would a courthouse steps block.

Cut (1) 2 1/2″ block fabric square
Cut (2) strips 1 1/2″ wide of the background fabric
Cut (2) strips 1 1/2″ wide of the block fabric

(If you prefer to cut your strips slightly wider and then trim to size after each addition, cut the strips at 1 3/4″ wide. The center square will remain the same size. I recommend this if you have trouble with accurate quarter inch seams.)

The next several sampler and filler blocks will go up fairly quickly – about every other day – because the Skill Builder posts are already done. How are you doing – are the block instructions working well for you? Do you have any suggestions?