quilting

Two ways to make quarter log cabin blocks

Quarter log cabin with layer cakes

If you’ve got a layer cake on hand, you can turn it into striking quarter log cabin blocks using a simple stack and whack approach—no strip piecing required.

Start by stacking three 10” squares from your layer cake, keeping the edges aligned. From there, make a series of strategic cuts through the stack to create smaller units. Once “whacked,” shuffle the pieces between the stacks and begin reassembling them into quarter log cabin blocks—building that classic “L” shape around a centre square and leaving one quadrant open.

This method lets you create multiple blocks at once, with each one coming out slightly different thanks to the fabric swaps. The result is a set of blocks that feel scrappy but still coordinated, with strong visual movement and contrast.

It’s quick, efficient, and a great way to make the most of a layer cake while giving a fresh twist to a traditional log cabin design.

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Quarter log cabin with layer cakes

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