Currently Stitching: Spring Log Cabins
This morning I found myself standing among my hoards of recent purchases. And while I never, ever regret buying fabric, there are times where I have to stop and have a discussion with myself about the partially started projects and my lists of kits and already planned designs. If you notice in the background, there's quite a bite of cute and partially pieced blocks in the background.
So, being the responsible adult I am, I shoved my new goodies in to a tote and got working on some runners and quilt tops I had started.
My focus in this episode is finishing up this half log cabin table runner. I got some of the strips pre-cut some time ago, and now it's time to knock out the rest.
It took me a good amount of time to get the hang of these half block cabins instead of the traditional set up. I am so glad I spent the time picking out such a cute fabrics because it makes the hard work worth it!
I read through the cutting and piecing instructions several times before I started sewing. Then I laid out all the different cuts by color so I could easily pull them out for the blocks as I needed them. It was so much fun mixing and matching the fabrics!
I did quite a bit of chain piecing as I got more comfortable.
I actually found it quite helpful in keeping me from messing up the strip order. Sometimes I would get things mixed up and sew the wrong size on or piece a strip onto the wrong side of the block.
I also had to be careful as I trimmed. I was using a new tool instead of regular rulers. Creative Grids makes several sizes and variety of log cabin block tools. The pattern I chose called for the 4 1/2 inch trimming tool. There's instructions that come with it, and they have tutorials on their website.
It was a pretty helpful too. They've designed it so even if you have issues with cutting, piecing or ironing, it should come out with clean lines and sharp points - no matter what! Which, I'll never understand how blocks get wonky even when I know I'm being careful and accurate!
The whole thing was pretty straight forward. I spent a lot of time pressing all the seams open and getting them all to lie flat. Otherwise it would have been a ton of bulk and a pain to get quilted.
I put them up on my design wall once each one was finished. It keeps me motivated to make another block!
Once they were all completed, I cut out the sashing, setting triangles, and borders.
I tried a couple different layouts before I got it sewn together! It's so hard to make the final decision on placement sometimes!
I just love how it turned out! It's so bright and Spring-y! Which was the goal, but you know how it can be. You envision a project in your head and it just doesn't come out that way at all!
It needs a bit more pressing yet. For the backing I'm using this sweet, green forward floral fabric. It's also very Spring vibe-y. But I think it would be safe to use through summer too!
Share your Spring and Summer table runners and projects with me! I love seeing how everyone gets ready for the seasons. 