Log Cabin Inspiration - Kaffe Fassett, Scraps, and Shirt Fabric

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Projects I'm working on:
/ thecatbird
Annabel Wrigley Picnic in the Park Quilt pattern: annabelwrigley.com/collection...
Then Came June version in Liberty of London fabric: thencamejune.com/blogs/blog/m...
Norah quilt (QAL): sunny-day-supply.myshopify.co...
Sunny Day Supply: sunny-day-supply.myshopify.com/
Lee Jensen maker of "Sewing Circle": leejensen.com/work
Kaffe Fassett Equator Design Roll (used in the video): www.southerncomfortsquilting....
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[@sshellyrsutton]

Hello Cathy, I love your channel! I love hearing your southern accent. Texas Girl here! 💃🏻🎉 Anyway I wanted to tell you that the second Norah quilt that you showed near the end of your video is MY Norah quilt I made in 2020. I cannot tell you how tickled I was when it popped up on the screen! 🧵🪡💃🏻🎉 Happy Sewing!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness!, Shelly That's SO AWESOME!!!!🎉🥳🎊 What's even better is that I probably looked at a HUNDRED images of Norah quilts on IG and kept coming back to yours because it was just SO pretty! ❤️ So if you ever wonder if the hashtags have a purpose--they do!!! And for those of you who see this comment, go check out Shelly's YT channel here: www.youtube.com/@sshellyrsutton

[@Cassandra-..-]

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@sshellyrsutton]

Thank you Cathy! You rock! 💃🏻🎉🧵🪡♥️

[@teresabradberry4219]

Shelly. Texas here too

[@angielovett4159]

The Kaffe block is yummy with the softer pinks. I met Kaffe this past year at a book tour he was on with Brandon Mably. The event included the book (he signed) a lecture with an incredible slideshow of art, commissions and projects that aren’t in any of his books. Anyway! I asked him how he felt about people mixing his fabrics with other fabric lines and he said: “I play well with others” and everyone clapped! It was such an inspiring day.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Angie, that sounds amazing! And what a great question to ask---his answer was perfect! 🤩

[@johnbarnby]

So when you brought out the Kaffe block I had a moment. I wanted to jump into your video and give you a high-five! I think you know I love everything you do, but I think you also know that Kaffe colors speak to my heart. Yum girl, yum.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

John, I keep chuckling over "Yum girl, yum." 😂 And yes, you have a special place for those Kaffe colors! ❤️

[@quiltgram3056]

😂😂😂. I love the word picture and enjoyed imagining in front of my eyes. A good laugh is always welcome.

[@megblair7482]

I really enjoy your light, conversational approach. I learned a lot from this video.

[@lynnthomas7275]

The very first quilt I made, in 2022, was a log cabin one for my eldest grandson who turns 21 next January. He asked me last week if he can launder it without damaging it. My heart sang!! He treasures it and was so happy when I told him to go for it.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! What a wonderful gift to YOU that your grandson loves his quilt enough that it warrants washing (and he didn't want to ruin it.) ❤️

[@brendahill7596]

Your videos are new to me. I just love your sense of humor!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww yay! Glad you found me and my channel! Thanks, and thanks for watching and commenting! ❤️

[@cathykells1577]

I love how you give me new inspiration for my shirt quilts. I made some years ago but put the shirts away because I wasn’t inspired by the patterns I was using but your modern take has me digging them back out and rearranging as I feel the joy again. I’m so glad I stumbled upon your videos❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thank you, Cathy! ❤️ I'm so glad you got some inspiration and joy from the videos here! So glad to have you with me on my quilt/YT journey!

[@rebeccajohnson5649]

I had six toats full of scraps and during Covid when we were locked down I made two toats full of 10 inch squares and I made three big quilts. I had so much fun.

[@evelynfunda141]

“I think I’d put it just any kinda way!” File this under “Words I never thought I’d ever hear Cathy Martin say.” 😂 I just ❤ seeing you break some rules!

[@evelynfunda141]

I enjoyed this video so much, Cathy. It’s quintessential Catbird Quilts. Your joy is so infectious. And I love, love, LOVE the Kaffe block. Brava!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

😂 Evelyn, I lol'd!! I have that dichotomy of my personality---left brain "order is joy""I don't do random""these pieces must come together properly in the corners"...and then my right brain "what if I made a quilt that looked like a Rothko painting?""I'll just do improv piecing even tho I've never done it before""what if I just quilted it myself using blue painter's tape?" Welcome to my brain---it's kinda scary in here but never boring. 😘 And thank you about the video and the Kaffe block! It was fun to make! ❤️

[@dianeroome972]

The KF pink LC block took my breath away. I would never have thought that it would be beautiful. Perhaps there is such quilt in my future. Now, to find such fabrics at a thrifty price!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Diane! ❤️ (and for the record, me either!) Good luck with your bargain shopping!

[@conniemurdoch8528]

You asked what “I wouldn’t turn around for the difference” means. When I was a kid, my Dad used to say that. By his definition it meant like when you get change when you buy something, you’d be leaving the store and someone would say “Wait you have change coming” and you say “just keep it”. You didn’t turn around to get your change, it was so inconsequential, it was beneath your vision. Insignificant.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Well that makes sense! I did understand it to mean "inconsequential" difference (between 2 things) but I never knew where it came from! Thanks for sharing, Connie! ❤️

[@scarlet10sewing]

You could use the first unusual block on the back. With all the plain fabric, it could be the label and you could write your information on it. Mistake or practice blocks got me started labeling my work.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

What a great idea, Janis! ❤️ Thank you for the suggestion! 🤓👍🏻

[@lisam8756]

Oh I love this video so much!! Take a simple block , try this, what if I did that ? Add some scraps , cut and sew and trim and PLAY. Oh the JOY of it 😊😊. That pink block with the Kaffe is STUNNING!!. The low volume calms the hot pink and shows it off at the same time, perfection. The blue ones are both great ( love your Dad's saying, it's so true). What an inspiring start to the day, thank you so much.! If anyone needs me I'll be in my sewing room😊😊😊. Happy sewing.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much, Lisa! ❤️ Thank you for your happy, enthusiastic comment and kind words---what a wonderful encouragement to me!

[@newtnoot2794]

I made a stack of log cabin blocks out of my irregular strip scraps- omg this block piecing process is so so fun!! It's gonna be a go-to scrap buster block from now on

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I feel the same and I haven't really even gotten started yet! 🤩❤️

[@juliaraley9563]

I took a class on log cabin blocks. We were taught with a jelly roll, no measuring….sew, press, chop, repeat. Ooooooo, the Kaffe, it would look amazing in Barn Raising layout.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I had to Google "barn raising layout for log cabin blocks" and then had to laugh because that was exactly what I was imagining in my head. 🤓😂❤️

[@barbarachattin-mcnichols2370]

I love a log cabin! It was my first big quilt, king size, made at work on my lunch times to surprise my husband for Christmas. That was more than 30 years ago and we still use it all the time. I think part of the attraction of the block is that you can just sit and sew, trim and press for long stretches of blissful fabric time. Then you get to playa with the layout, which is a blast.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Barbara, yes! "part of the attraction of the block is that you can just sit and sew, trim and press for long stretches of blissful fabric time." PREACH. IT.❤️

[@mariannegarascia3730]

I always look forward to your videos. You bring joy to the world. I wasn’t a fan of log cabin blocks. You’ve given it a whole new life!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thank you, Marianne! ❤️

[@Sylvie_M]

You've had an epiphany! 🤣And all your blocks are lovely.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Sylvie! ❤️ And yes, I have! 🤓🤩

[@roxannesmith6656]

Oh my gosh you are a blast ! Love your laugh & positivity ! I am a semi beginner quilter & I have always loved the log cabin block. Hopefully soon I will be starting one when I get finished with all the small projects I’m working on. I am so happy I stumbled onto your channel today. I will have to go back to see your other tutorials. Thank you so much Cathy for this tutorial ! Your a cool cat ! laugh out loud 😊

[@vickif1419]

Around 20-25 years sgo I collected a ton of black and white and blue and white men's dress shirts. For Christmas that year I made as many log cabin blocks with red centers that I could get out of those shirts. I was able to get 3 completely different quilts out of those blocks. My two nephews and 1 niece were thrilled to get them! 😁

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

That's so wonderful! 3 quilts out of those shirts---isn't that amazing?! Just one more reason why I love quilting with shirts! ❤️

[@CoraWilfinger-ix6hx]

Enjoyed this so much! My first big quilt was a log cabin, but I had to cut all the strips. Now you've inspired me to use my overgrown stash to make a new one. You are right, it is a comfy, cozy feeling to look at a log cabin quilt. You are so much fun to watch, and always make me smile!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Cora!❤️ "Overgrown stash" made me chuckle!

[@carolynkeenan9738]

I have a pair!! absolutely LOVE THEM!!!

[@heidithatcher-miller9512]

I started a log cabin quilt many, many years ago. This week I have been cleaning up the craft/storage room and came across the box it is in and thought, maybe now is the the time to get this finished! I have a lot more fabric to add to the blocks now also. I love the low volume look block, very inspirational. Thank you for sharing your journey.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Heidi! I can't wait to see your log cabin quilt once you start adding fabric to it!!🤩 Thank you for the kind words, and for being along with me! I'm grateful for you! ❤️

[@shannoneaster9311]

Yay!!! Log cabin quilts are my absolute favorites and the potential for interesting layouts and beautiful results is why. 👏🏼 So glad you are enjoying them as well! ❤️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Of course you do! Thanks (as always) for watching and commenting and being so supportive, Shannon! ❤️

[@abigailthompson4456]

There's a trick to the log cabin quilt which is after the center block and the first three rounds, the way you find the next side to add to is to choose the side that has 2 seams. There will only be one. My first quilt was a log cabin, in the 70's and the contrast is not very good, but boy has it had a lot of use! I like your experiments. And your enthusiasm for this. Cheers!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Abigail for the trick to know which is the next side to stitch! I think that will be really helpful once I start making more log cabin blocks! ❤️

[@viviansnyder8247]

This video had me intrigued until the end I love how you are talking to us all giddy and as if we were sitting right there with you. Very lovely blocks most of my fabric is Kaffe, Anna Maria Horner and Grunge so the wheels in my head are now turning I’m inspired to try a log cabin quilt.❤🙌

[@gailcolvin1640]

First time viewer -- you are my new favorite yt person! Love your humor, your digressions, your adoration of fabric and color!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Gail! ❤️ I'm so glad you found me! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@leahtupts4629]

Cathy, you are adorable! You have the best smile and I love how you laugh at yourself! ❤ I love your ideas on the log cabin variations. I have made one but as a relatively new quilter found it was kinda stressful…”is this a light, is this a dark?” 😩

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Leah! ❤️ What a sweet thing to say! I can totally see how choosing fabrics based on value (light vs dark) can be tricky---and of course I overthink all my color/fabric choices so I'll likely be in the same boat!🤦🏻‍♀️🤓🥴

[@HRHDMKYT]

Sometimes to make it easier to decide if a fabric is light or dark, you could lay out all your fabrics, take a picture with your phone, and then edit the picture to grey scale.

[@Thebrenbzzz]

First time watching you. Girl, I want to be your friend. You are simply delightful. Love how you describe your process. love your "It will be hidden in the seam allowance" Will be digging through your past videos and watching while I log cabin my next sewing day away :)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness, thank you! ❤️ I'm so glad you found my channel and have enjoyed the video! Thank you for watching and for your super sweet comment! 😘

[@Thebrenbzzz]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts : ) I watched a slew of your shopping at the thrift stores... I had to fight the urge to go shopping haha Funny thnig is I just completed a quilt where the fabric was half from a friends mother in laws stash she had left after she passed away, prob from the 80's and some plaid shirts I got at the thrift store. I call it my little house on the prairie picnic quilt. its a hodgepodge for sure, I demolished the shirts but now I know how to break them down, Im going to try again :)

[@gwenj5419]

I love blue and yellow too.

[@laureng4594]

Im a new quilter. I love listening to you talk fabrics while im sewing.

[@maureenkaskela3232]

Love your Kaffe block!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks!

[@janemeyer794]

I just found you and subscribed. You're like a best friend, chatting over coffee.

[@giselleyoung3248]

Love, love love how you put your Kaffe quilt top together!!❤ I just did my first "traditional" Log Cabin block last year. I enjoy the contrasts and I can also see the possibilities in the variety of layouts that we can play with.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Giselle! ❤️ I bet your traditional log cabin was beautiful! I only planned to make that one Kaffe block, but now I'm finding myself thinking about making more!😂🤦🏻‍♀️ Like I need another WIP! LOL!

[@lorriescott8775]

Though thrift stores are expensive in the Seattle area, we still have bargains. Across the water from Seattle is a garage sale in July where last year they made more than $800,000 in 6 hours. My fave is the sewing area. For $7 I bought a large bag of jewel-tone fabrics. 15 completed log cabin squares/about 15 colors & strips to make about 40 more squares. They were not sewn light/dark. So I did not realize I should have. I’ll ponder this lesson over my Starbucks.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Lorrie, even though you may not have sewn them light/dark, I bet they are still beautiful! Hope your Starbucks was yummy!

[@lorriescott8775]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts not only yummy, but in these past 2 days there have been many cups. I just saw your message pop-up. I now know the men’s shirts I need. My dear little brother passed away last night. I want to carefully ask my sister-in-law for some of his shirts to make her a small quilt that she can snuggle. I’m not sure if I’d have thought of it if it were not for your videos. Thank you.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Lorrie, I'm so sorry for your loss. 😔 You must surely still be in shock. Please know that my thoughts are with you. And you will make a lovely quilt for your sister-in-law )and maybe one for yourself, too) and it will be a blessing to you both. ❤️

[@kathosim501]

Ooh this makes me want to go to the yard sale you’re talking about thus year. I bet the sewing area is great, I didn’t think about it. But my MiL lives there, I’ll have to go. I’m so sorry about your brother.

[@lorriescott8775]

@@kathosim501 I love the sewing area! One year I got a totally completed quilt top & binding. It was rose/pink and sage/moss colors. $7.

[@nicolebeauchamp7622]

The beautiful thing about a traditional log cabin block with light and dark contrast is that it is just a half square triangle block. So when made the log cabin block will work with any half square triangle block quilt pattern. The possibilities are virtually endless.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Nicole, I had not even thought about that! Genius! 🤓❤️

[@lauriemarks6634]

Ooooh, I have been collecting blue and yellow shirts from the thrift store as well. And you know, the random purple one, I am always on the lookout for. You are an inspiration!❤️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Laurie! ❤️ I think a blue log cabin quilt with yellow center blocks would be so great! (but then again, so would purple! 😘)

[@nancy-katharynmcgraw2669]

My very first quilt was a king-size shades of greens, sewn in a Quarter Log Cabin block style quilt. That was in 1991. Not perfect, not many matched seams, but treasured all the same. The backing was a dark green and white striped king-size flat sheet. Oh my, what I didn't know & so grateful there were no quilt police anywhere about! Then, a sort of matching pillow case was sewn into a Bargello pattern... surely, I did better...nope didn't realize I was not consistently sewing with a (required) 1/4" seam allowance. After several washings of the pillow - didn't know about making pillow coverings envelope style, so just the covering could be washed...sad, I know; several of those seams came apart. Turned out not all cotton fabrics are woven very tightly; a few strips were more loosely woven fabrics...duh... I am critical, now, 31 years later...but I can be my own quilt police, don'tcha know! I am thoroughly enjoying your Quilting VLOGS! MANY THANKS!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Nancy, we can all be our own quilt police for sure! But you obviously loved quilting, and learned, and now you know better! And isn't THAT wonderful?! ❤️

[@Love-to-sew-so-much-56]

Let me start with you had me at log cabin! But oh my goodness I love red and pink! Your block is beautiful, Yessss and yessss! Thank you for sharing!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh yay! Thank you, Deborah! ❤️

[@freddiehansen7324]

So cute!!!! There is something about a block that looks "hard" but you don't have to be super precise with the cutting and the seam allowance. Another fave of mine is the square in a square in a square. If you cut them right, and sew them at 1/4 inch they just fit, my brain kinda just switches off (which can be nice) and I just sew and sew. I have made 3 quilts with this pattern (free pattern from Donna Jordan - called Hip to be Square) in very different color combos and fabric types and they all came out so lovely. Perfect for beginners (though you do need to have a consistent 1/4 seam), I'm planning to make one for myself with this pattern too, as I just love the look. One had 30+ fabrics, one 20 ish and one were down to 9 different fabrics. Shirts would be easy to use and so would jelly rolls or yardage (fat quarters is a little harder but doable).

[@kittyswanson3611]

I love log cabins, log cabin variations and really all strip quilts. I just made a LC variation quilt out of mens dress shirts and have a small amount of binding left to sew.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

That last step, the binding step, is close to my favorite part---you can see the finish line now! 🤩❤️

[@dedrasmitherman7983]

I think. I wonder. That’s what I do! Great discoveries come from that. ❤😊

[@aliampb6949]

I have the joy to be at a Kaffe and Brandon workshop this weekend and their ethos is colour, colour, colour. Love your blocks

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

How exciting, Ali! Have fun! ❤️

[@ladyjane3660]

The Kaffe Fassett fabrics with the light pinks make for a stunning log cabin block. I, too, have a couple of pairs of Guggenheim shears/scissors. They are, indeed, wonderful to use. They have such a smooth cut, and I like the weight of them.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Jane! And glad to know I'm not the only one who loves those scissors!! ❤️

[@jeanetterochnowskis142]

Hi Cathy. This is the video I have been waiting for. The Kaffe block is stunning. I prefer the light/dark stairstep version. The contrast is so interesting. I have looked up how they place the blocks to get such unique versions. On another note...the middle square represents the fieplace of a log cabin which is the heart of the home. That's the story I heard that makes sense to me. Also so glad you have those " To Die For" scissors. Lol

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Hey Nettie! I'm so glad you enjoyed this one! ❤️

[@gisellejones1139]

I haven't done one yet but your enthusiasm is very appealing Cathy 😊😊😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I am nothing if not enthusiastic! LOL! ❤️

[@angielovett4159]

I have those scissors and I love- love them! Such a dream to use. It definitely feels like an indulgence using quality tools. 💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@jennypare9564]

Love your videos as always, it’s always so fun when you discover a new block to love in your (our) quilting journey. Google diamond log cabin blocks… those are pretty amazing too!! Have a blessed week!❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Jenny! ❤️ I will definitely Google diamond log cabin blocks! And you, too!

[@angieallen4884]

Your enthusiasm is so infectious! Looking forward to more now that I am subscribed.

[@sandymajors6015]

Love Log Cabin and your blocks are really beautiful.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Sandy! ❤️

[@silver_csmith]

So lovely Cathy!!! 😍👏🏻👌🏻

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Charity! ❤️

[@eshellebennett]

my first two attempts were not measured pieces. My first attempt was just grab a strip sew cut add next strip and my second attempt was two layer cakes that I cut strips turned the pile cut a strip turned until i got down to a 2 in square. both versions were cute then i got a jordan fabrics kit and learned that version then courtsteps. so much fun and then learned curvy log pattern from jordan fabrics. curvy is my fave because the shapes you can make with curvy

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Eshelle, you have had quite the journey, from not even measuring all the way to curvy log cabin pattern! So cool. I like curvy patterns too for that same exact reason---not a quick as squares and strips though!! 😘 Thanks for watching and commenting! ❤️

[@toloveandrestore2472]

I just finished my second quilt using your directions! Thank you 😍

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh yay! Congrats---and you're welcome!

[@stefflcus]

You... okay, first of all, let's get this out of the way: I adore that you understand and are spreading kaint. I have a fairly non-accent accent despite being Southern, and I use this all the time, and people dont... really... get it. I'm sad for them. I KAIN'T WITH THESE PEEPL! *ahem* As I was saying, you have opened my design eyes! I has ze ideas now. (Will I do them? Who knows? But ze ideas are fun!) The Kaffe block is so striking, and the grey one is just SO sweet. A nice throw with those (or curtains?) would be the peak of gently comforting. Keep 'em coming!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I KAINT WITH THESE PEEPL! 😂 Yasss girl! I'm so glad you now have open design eyes and YES, for Heaven's sake ze ideas are fun to consider and awesome if they ever come together! ❤️

[@susanvansluyters4470]

Great video! You’re so much fun.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Susan! ❤️

[@caw3258]

Well, maybe I should reconsider. Maybe 30 years in between log cabin quilts might be okay. Also, I am so amused (and in such agreement) with your sense of awe at your little mouse gray block. It is made of such inconsequential fabrics, and yet the effect is arresting. Way to go, as usual.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much! ❤️ "little mouse gray block" = perfect description. I think a 30 year break between quilt patterns is a perfect amount of time away! Maybe a new log cabin quilt is just what you need! 😘🤓😂

[@cassieplayford634]

Beautiful blocks as always! 💕 I love the contrast of the Kaffe fabrics with the lighter pink fabrics….so gorgeous together! but….. I LOVE the calming of the low volume blocks. Soooooo pretty. I want to dive into my scraps and do a few of the low volume blocks and maybe even make a quilt with them. Thanks the inspiration! Love your videos. 💕

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Cassie! ❤️ I think the Kaffe block could not be more different than the low volume block, but I, too, love them both!

[@lornag.6699]

I recently made an attempt to organize my scraps 😂, and was surprised by how many strips I have. I think there are some log cabin blocks in my future!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You'll have to post photos in the chat on Patreon when you start making those blocks, Lorna! ❤️

[@Kimberlyle98]

I made my first quilt Dec’22 and used the scraps to make a log cabin block. Now every time I make a new quilt I use the scraps to make a log cabin block. Then I write the year and who it was for on it. They all look different, some are square in square and others are corner to corner. They are different sizes depending on how many scraps are left over and how big they are. It’s so much fun to look at the collection every time I finish another quilt. Once I have enough I’m sewing them together for their own quilt.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

What a great idea! 🤓👍🏻 Imagine how cool (not to mention the awesome memories from previous quilts) that quilt will be when you sew all the log cabin blocks together!🤩

[@renestovall9226]

Beautiful blocks! As much as I love bright color, I love love love your low volume block😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Rene!❤️

[@user-cl9eg5my1h]

😊 I discovered your KZbin channel 2 days ago…what a delight! You had me when you said ‘kaint ’…another southern girl here! After watching your Thrift Store video, I am so happy to see that you have discovered the amazing possibilities of Kaffe Fassett fabrics! Being a fan of KFC fabrics for 20 years, it was delightful to see your face when you presented your log cabin block! It is gorgeous…looking forward to more of your creations with Kaffe, Phillip, and Brandon fabrics (and thrift store shirts)!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much! I'm glad you found me---you know we Southern girls have to stick together! As for Kaffe (and Phillip, and Brandon) fabrics, well you just never know what I'll get into and put shirts with!😂🤩🤓 I've definitly made those gifted Kaffe fabrics go a long way!❤️

[@juliewilson1867]

There is a pattern with a twist on a log cabin, on Natasha Makes, Wednesday, March 6, 2024;called a corner log cabin. I am gathering my fabrics now. I like you, had fun making a a traditional log cabin.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks for the suggestion, Julie! ❤️ I'll have to check that out!

[@valerievesper9216]

I have seen log cabin quilt blocks that don’t divide into light and dark or two different colors. They can be lovely, I think especially with sashing. However remember that if you don’t have that diagonal divide in the block, you will not get the effect of the secondary pattern that usually comes with traditional log cabin block layouts. Either type of block can make a lovely quilt (I also love your blue and yellow) but know going in which one you’re shooting for!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Such a great reminder! Thank you! ❤️🤓 It is like so many other types of quilts---if you know where you're going when you start, the quilt is so lovely (and thoughtful) in the end! (and I love those secondary patterns!😍)

[@TherapyQuilter]

My Cousin and I meet you at QuiltCon this year and it was such a pleasure to meet you. This video has inspired me to break into that scrap cabinet and get to working!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I remember meeting you and your cousin! What a delight.❤️ Glad you found some inspiration with this video--I hope you have fun working through your scrap cabinet! 🤓👍🏻

[@connieprince9718]

I have my cherished Gingher scissors in the original box with the understanding no one touches them but me.

[@juliasander1680]

I love the Kaffe red & pink block!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Julia! ❤️

[@pst47wings]

I haven't made a log cabin quilt in a long time. The last ones I made were with Christmas fabrics, arranged like a wreath. But I've been seeing more and more log cabin quilts as well. I love the idea of using a jelly roll 😄 But I should be using my scraps as well 😊😊😊

[@debbiegallett1125]

I love all the blocks but the Kaffe is wonderful. I have a bunch of Kaffe and I am going to do this.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh thank you so much, Debbie! ❤️ I'm sure it will turn out beautifully! 🤩

[@TheRozylass]

All of those iterations were terrific in their own way. Thanks for sharing your obsession! I'd like to dip my toe in the log cabin water too. But like you said, another WIP? My life will end before I ever finish everything, but at least I'll die happy!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I (too) definitely have more projects than I can do in a lifetime, but it will be a happy life sewing until that day comes! ❤️ Thanks for the kind words and for commenting, Rozylass!

[@carolbell8825]

I love the kaffe block I bet if you made more of the little white and grey block, they would look great joined with some grey sashing.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Carol! ❤️ I bet you are right!!

[@bonnieh2123]

When I first saw Kaffe, I thought pretty but whyyyyyyyy? But I challenged myself to use in a simple quilt with one Kaffe fabric surrounded by a solid, like the one behind you but more rectangular shape. Then I went that is really pretty. Next I bought more Kaffe fabric, loved the colors, loved the design and just enjoyed the heck out of looking and touching the fabric. Then I really searched out quilts using Kaffe fabric. I was obsessed with how they used one design and played with different color ways. My taste evolved and I am now a devotee. This is how it starts!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I definitely had similar thought when I first saw Kaffe fabric as well! And I think your path to Kaffe "devotee" is how it happens for so many quilters! I will say that the vibrance and wild patterns have definitely grown on me!🤓👍🏻

[@kathleendepew1683]

There is a logo on my Baby Rothko. I love it!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh I'm so glad you got it---and love it! ❤️

[@rhondahallet8413]

If you want to know about "log cabin" blocks you have to start with Eleanor Burns. She made a career from that block and virtually started the modern quilting interest beginning in the 70's. She is still teaching classes. If you aren't familiar with her story you might want to look her up. Her company is Quilt in a Day.

[@diannenaworensky6698]

Did not know that Eleanor Burns was still teaching. Saw her on the Carol Duvall program on HGTV

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I will check her out! Thanks for the recommendation!

[@mareetorrumbarry5155]

Your first log cabin reminds me of Duckworth quilts..

[@teresabradberry4219]

Love this video...😂😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Teresa! ❤️

[@teresajasmer1358]

❤ the pink/ red & contrast lighter colors! I WILL try log cabin blocks.😂

[@donnawilson7091]

You’re very entertaining I enjoy your video.

[@usairdoll]

Your video popped up on my Google today. Loved your video and your blocks are gorgeous. Will start looking for shirts to sew with. Great suggestion, not that I need more fabric but why not? 🤣 Have a great weekend 💕

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Hooray! So glad you found me and watched...and commented! ❤️ Good luck finding shirts and I hope you have a great weekend, too!

[@Cassandra-..-]

Low volume squares - maybe with bright or dark sashing with light gray cornerstones?? Love everything you showed.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oooh. That would be SUPER cool! 🤩

[@coreygilles847]

I love the look of a log cabin quilt…but I have only made one quilt with it…because I found that I dislike putting the block together. I will happily make 10 billion HST’s and thousands of flying geese…but I have made 50 log cabin blocks and that was my lifetime limit ❤ however, your examples are gorgeous

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Corey, I laughed at this comment! I'l do your log cabin quilts and you can do my HST's!! 😂 Or maybe 50 log cabin blocks gives you permission to never do them again!! 😘

[@diannenaworensky6698]

♥️♥️♥️

[@teresamcfadden2414]

I seriously think the log cabin block is a tried and true block because it has so very many ways to lay it out. You can get so many different looking quilts from the layout to the fabric choices. I love a good quilt block. On a different note have you ever watched “Pola quilts” on you tube. She loves loves loves. Scrap quilting.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Teresa, I think you are so right. And to your question, no I haven't watched Pola quilts but I will check her out! Thanks for the suggestion! 🤓👍🏻

[@dianap9381]

I learned something interesting while looking for a quilt blocks on the internet. I'm not sure if it's true or not, but I like to believe that it is. The website that had the quilt block said that a black square at the center of the log cabin mentioned that that home was on the underground railroad. Like I said, I'm not sure if it's true, but it did have the red and yellow descriptions

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I have heard this too--and also that it can be used as a funeral quilt since the hearth light has "gone out!"

[@saraborisch5343]

Kathy I have so many broken down shirts but not a definite plan in mind. I will give this a try! I love the low volume block...so restful!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Sara!❤️ I hope you have fun with it like I did!

[@marleneclausen30]

If you want an “you won’t believe it ‘s a log cabin” pattern look at Newport Fantasy by Pleasant Valley Creations. It is one on my all time fav quilt pattern.

[@karonwostenholme6533]

❤❤❤❤

[@lindastrous5243]

Good morning from, Montoursville Pennsylvania.

[@rhondadownes207]

That Kaffe block is stunning! 🩷🩷🩷 I hope you do something with it because it will be even more gorgeous. I think I want to make several now!

[@eleanorb1400]

Like many I like the log cabin block. However, I am quite lazy and time short so I made wonky log cabin so I did not have to trim up my scraps. So far only have the blocks but did use up a lot of my strips. Hopefully will finish it some day.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It will eventually get finished, I'm sure! But until then, at least it used up a bunch of your strips! 🤩

[@TheQuiltingLunchLady]

Between your giddiness over your using up part of your scrap stash and then the Guggenhein scissor comment, I was snorting, snorrrrting with strong giggles and gaffaws. My children have been threatened with death if they use my fabric scissors. So I get your possessiveness over those scissors!!!!😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh Christine, you know it gives me joy when I make people laugh! As for this video: mission accomplished! ❤️

[@SewGurl58]

So, if you look at a traditional log cabin quilt, the center square is not the same size as the first round. I think the invent of the jelly roll spurned this look. I know the math would be much more involved if you want to precut all your strips, but try this. Cut a center square 3.5", and your first round strip, 2" x 3.5", then your next round will be 2" x 5", and so on. I think you'll find it much more visually pleasing.

[@imogenethomas1138]

I Kant! I Kant! I love it when you speak Appalachian! We are on the same wave length right now. (#logcabinobsessed). I’ve been reading everything I see about log cabin blocks. I want to make a Courthouse Steps, and also, something similar to the Quilt Con log cabin that starts with one BIG square in the center. In all my studying, I ran across an interesting side note. It has been said that during the time of the Underground Railroad, if fleeing slaves saw a quilt with black squares in the center block, they knew this was a safe place to stop for help. Isn’t that fascinating?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Imogene, we are! ❤️ I also want to make a Courthouse steps (well and just a traditional log cabin quilt) but I'd better wrap up some of my other projects FIRST! 🤦🏻‍♀️😱 As for the black square being a tip-off for safe houses for the Underground Railroad---that IS fascinating! And wonderful! 😊

[@gwynwellliver4489]

You made me laugh today. Thanks.❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You are so welcome! ❤️

[@nancymathisen9707]

❤. Have you looked at the court house steps pattern? Equally versatile. I think the Nora quilt might be a hybrid log cabin, court house steps. It’s hard to see on an iPad. You can make spirals with a modified court house steps. My log cabin and spirals are wonky. I find combining uniformity with wonkiness to be delightful.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Nancy, I have! And yes, I believe you're right: the Norah quilt does appear to be courthouse steps version of log cabin! 🤓👍🏻 I think introducing the unexpected (wonky plus uniformity) is almost always delightful! ❤️

[@donnawilson7091]

Too busy? That’s so funny. I’m working on an EPP that’s all Kaffe. My thoughts were that the solids would kill the prints. Now we know that both our ways work.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I love this so much, Donna! ❤️ And yes, exactly: "now we know that both our ways work"

[@kathleenhaywood6142]

Love your foray into Kaffe. I have much the same feelings about hiim. I'm also currently make blocks based on your surrounding Kaffe squares with solids. But my Kaffe center squares are not of uniform size & the surrounds coordinates with the center. Sort of like the ones done by Timna Tarr???

[@jeanmanz2234]

They have found Egyptian mummified cats wrapped in log cabin style fabrics. I just watched a video with that info and pictures.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Whoa! That's so crazy! 😳

[@pammeinzer6757]

I have never made a log cabin quilt. Maybe it is time.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Pam, I don't know why, but that surprised me! Maybe it IS time!!

[@barbarasinopoli7690]

Concentric squares are totally a thing! We know exactly what you mean!!

[@lucy7b]

❤❤❤