  |
||||||
|
|
Make the Twisted Log Cabin QuiltThis Simple Quilt Pattern Creates Spectacular Results
Use a free pattern to make the twisted log cabin quilt, a variation on the basic, beloved log cabin pattern that uses triangles to make complex fabric designs
Advanced quilters like a challenge, and one of the most enticing challenges out there is the twisted log cabin quilt. Based on the perennial favorite, the log cabin block in which strips of fabric are stitched around a central scrap, the twisted log cabin here uses wedges and triangles instead of strips to create unexpected, often remarkable designs. The block is deceptively easy, but the results are rich and complex. Twisted Log Cabin Triangular Block The graphic that accompanies this article is a rendering of a twisted log cabin quilt using a triangle block. Most of the triangles have a different color on each of the three sides and are coordinated with the colors in adjoining blocks to create the illusion of the curved petals of a flower when actually no curves are used in creating the block itself. This is an elegant block that has enormous potential. If you are looking for a spectacular quilt design that you can make and give for a very special occasion, this is the one. Twisted Log Cabin Block FabricsThe layout uses 41 fabrics in eight colors, with five values from light to medium in each. The background here is black, but white and gold also make striking background colors. Fat quarters and a couple of yards of background fabric should do it. The rendering uses seven and a half inch triangles, with eight triangles each for five rows; some are inverted, which makes the pattern difficult to see. The black border is three inches finished. If you want to try this pattern, you might consider is using ombres, gradated fabrics that will do the color blending work for you. Ombres are popular these days, and you can find some very attractive and versatile styles online or at your local quilting outlet. Twisted Log Cabin Quilt AssemblyThe assembly of this quilt is simple once you get the hang of sewing triangles together. There are no inset seams. The most difficult part of the process is having a good layout to work with that will show you which colors to sew on each block to create the pattern. Watch Out For Bulk When Making a Twisted Log Cabin QuiltTrim your seam allowances to 1/8" in order to eliminate bulk, and use a wash away stabilizer if you can. One nice feature of the bulk is that a wall hanging made from this pattern has a nice drape, almost like a tapestry. Foundation PiecingThis pattern is foundation pieced (sewing each strip to a background fabric or stabilizing medium), and a wash away stabilizer will make your life easier. There are wash away stabilizers on the market that you can print on using a copier or your printer to repeat the pattern easily and quickly. They're pricey, but for an heirloom piece like this, they may be worth it. For free instructions, templates, and layouts visit: Twisted Log Cabin Block. Be sure to spend plenty of time laying out your pattern before you begin cutting the fabric. You'll also have a better chance of creating a clean, even block if you iron each wedge after adding it to the foundation. Mini irons are great for this, and having an ironing pad at your sewing table will save you having to walk to the iron after each strip. For beginning quilters, I'd recommend starting with a more basic log cabin block and trying this advanced version after you have a few quilts in your closet. By then you'll probably have and know how to use most of the aids that I've mentioned here.
The copyright of the article Make the Twisted Log Cabin Quilt in Quilting is owned by S. Elliott. Permission to republish Make the Twisted Log Cabin Quilt in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
|
|||||
|
|
||||||
