Log Cabin Quilts: The Basics & Beyond

Houts and Wright not only elevate the classic log cabin quilt to star quality, but they also raise the pattern into contemporary constellations. The sisters' approach honors the age-old design%E2%80%94strips rotating around a square%E2%80%94by explaining the basics of how to stack those strips in seven classic settings, such as Barn Raising and Courthouse Steps. They teach how to make these blocks, discussing fabric selection and supplying mathematical charts for the amount of fabric required. Cutting instructions for each pattern cover the traditional technique with scissors and the new-fangled model with their Log Cabin Trim Tool. They also describe two plans for each design: scrappy (using bits at hand) from the right brain (Houts' preference), and planned (fabric bought purposefully), Wright's left-brain way. The relatively easy designs work for quilters with intermediate skills except for a beginners' chevron called Funtastic. That's one of the 12 modern designs, such as Jelly Beans, Woven Ribbons, and Climbing Clematis Vine with appliqu%C3%A9d flowers ascending the strong diagonal lines%E2%80%94all delightful dances on a theme. (Feb.)