Strip Quilt Secrets, technique 4

The fourth chapter in my new book STRIP QUILT SECRETS is all about using Individual Strips. Some blocks cannot be made from strip sets, and there are some great tips and tricks for using individual strips, from cutting to sewing, to pressing, that will result in accurate blocks that are easy to play with.

BETTER TOGETHER

I will never tire of making log cabin quilts. By cutting accurate strips, using a consistent quarter inch seam allowance, and pressing with care, these blocks will be perfect every time! The fun with log cabin blocks is that there is no limit to the possible variations. I added triangles (see chapter 2!) to the center of the blocks and around the border. If you're not a pink person, which color would you choose?

TOWNHOUSE ROW

Another version of log cabin blocks, but this time the fun comes in the border. Little house blocks carry on the 'log cabin' theme, but you could substitute any block in the border. How about stars, or hearts, or skip the border all together! This will not be my last log cabin, or my last house quilt.

ECHO

This 'courthouse steps' variation of log cabin blocks allow even more possibilities! I used the same size square in the center of each block and then changed the widths of the strips surrounding the center. There are a total of four different blocks in this quilt, but you could easily choose just one or two blocks for a totally different look. I love the way this quilt looks on my son's bed. I think I need to make a Christmas version of this though, don't you?

I would highly encourage even experienced quilters to read through the tips and techniques for this chapter. There are always new bits of information we can add to our quilting tool box for better results and easier piecing.

Enjoy every stitch!
Diane