There’s something so satisfying about working with traditional quilt blocks. The rhythm of piecing and the harmony of colors together take me back to when I first discovered quilting as a way to capture memories and play with color.
The Half Log Cabin block, with its gentle, spiraling effect, was one of my earliest favorites. Over the years, I’ve learned to make variations of it, each one unique in color and layout. This particular design brings together purple, fuchsia, and green fabrics to create a lively yet balanced quilt that’s both comforting and visually engaging.
Creating a Half Log Cabin quilt is more than just piecing fabric—it’s about experimenting with color and enjoying the textures that emerge. This project is versatile, perfect for intermediate quilters, but also accessible for those newer to the craft. Let’s dive in and explore this twist on the classic Log Cabin design with all the steps to bring it to life!
Embracing Color: Purple, Fuchsia, and Green Harmony
In this quilt, we’re playing with three bold colors that create a stunning contrast: purple, fuchsia, and green. The variety of shades in each color adds depth to the design, allowing each block to come alive as it’s pieced together. The color choice gives a natural flow to the quilt, making it vibrant and inviting. By using a mix of fabric patterns within each color family, you’ll add subtle texture to the quilt’s overall look.
Crafting on Point: The Art of On-Point Layouts
One of the unique features of this quilt is its “on-point” layout, which tilts each block to create a diagonal flow. This setting adds a dynamic quality to the finished quilt, drawing the eye diagonally across the fabric. Though it may seem tricky if you’re new to quilting, breaking down the process makes it manageable, and the end result is well worth the effort!
Full Pattern: Click Here
Materials for the Half Log Cabin Quilt
To complete this quilt, you’ll need the following materials:
- Purple, fuchsia, and green fabrics: Use a variety of shades and patterns within each color for a dynamic look.
- Center squares: Cut 32 squares, each 4.5 inches.
- Logs: Cut strips at 2.5 inches wide to border the center squares.
- Setting triangles: Cut from 15.5-inch squares for side triangles and 8-inch squares for corner triangles.
- Border fabrics (optional): Inner border at 2 inches wide and outer border at 3.5 inches wide.
- Basic quilting tools: Rotary cutter, ruler, mat, iron, scissors, setting triangle ruler (optional), sewing machine, and matching thread.
Getting Started: Tips for a Smooth Beginning
Before you start piecing your Half Log Cabin blocks, consider pre-washing and pressing your fabrics to eliminate shrinkage. Take time to organize your fabric strips by color and pattern, which will help you keep track of each piece as you work. Chain piecing is another helpful method that lets you sew multiple pieces without stopping, saving time and keeping the process smooth and efficient.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Half Log Cabin Quilt
- Prepare Your Center Squares and Logs
Cut 32 center squares at 4.5 inches. For each block, you’ll also need several strips cut at 2.5 inches wide in purple, fuchsia, and green. Arrange the strips by color so you can easily add them as you build each block. - Begin the First Round of Logs
Start with one center square and add a strip along one side, then trim to fit the square. Rotate the square 90 degrees and add a strip along the next side, keeping the same color on both sides. Press the seams outward after each addition. - Add Additional Rounds
Continue adding strips, rotating the block after each pair of strips, until you have three rounds of strips bordering the center square. This will complete one 10-inch block (10.5 inches including seam allowances). - Chain Piece the Blocks
Repeat the steps above for all 32 blocks, chain-piecing to speed up the process. This technique lets you sew multiple blocks without stopping, keeping your workflow efficient. - Cut and Attach Setting Triangles
For the on-point layout, you’ll need side and corner triangles. From a 15.5-inch square, cut diagonally twice to get four side triangles. For the corners, cut two 8-inch squares diagonally once to make four corner triangles. Attach these triangles to the outer blocks in each row to create a smooth, angled border. - Assemble Rows and Sew the Quilt Top
Lay out your blocks on-point in a 4×5 layout, adding side and corner triangles as needed. Join blocks into rows diagonally, then sew the rows together. Press seams open or to one side as you go to keep everything flat. - Add Borders (Optional)
If you’d like to add borders, start with a 2-inch inner border and then add a 3.5-inch outer border to frame the quilt. Measure carefully to ensure a smooth finish. - Finish with Quilting and Binding
Once your quilt top is complete, layer it with batting and backing, then quilt as desired. Finally, add binding to finish the edges.
Additional Tips for Success
- Fabric Selection: Stick to one color family per round for a cohesive look or mix it up for a scrappier feel.
- Pressing Seams: Press seams as you go to keep the blocks flat and aligned. This will make it easier to sew the rows together neatly.
- Experimenting with Block Size: To adjust the quilt size, you can modify the center square and strip widths, following the guidelines in the Quilt Notes.
Reflecting on the Creative Journey
Creating the Half Log Cabin quilt is more than just a project—it’s a personal journey through color, texture, and technique. With each Half Log Cabin block, you’ll see the quilt grow from simple shapes to a vibrant, completed Half Log Cabin quilt that’s truly your own.
The dynamic on-point setting and the harmonious colors bring a special energy to this Half Log Cabin piece, making it an heirloom to cherish. Enjoy every moment, from the first cut to the final stitch, as this Half Log Cabin quilt comes together with love.