Courthouse Steps
Log Cabin Variation

Courthouse Steps is a popular and simple variation on the traditional Log Cabin quilt block. Like many other log cabin blocks it is made by combining light and dark fabrics in a step formation around a central “hearth” square. The strips are assembled in opposite pairs, rather than working round the block.

Block Assembly Instructions 8 1/2" x 8 1/2" block

Name

Strip Size

Colour

A2

2 1/2" x 2 1/2"

Red

A1 & A3

2 1/2" x 1 1/2"

Blue

A4 & A5

4 1/2" x 1 1/2"

Yellow

A6 & A7

4 1/2" x 1 1/2"

Blue

A8 & A9

6 1/2" x 1 1/2"

Yellow

A10 & A11

6 1/2" x 1 1/2"

Blue

A12 & A13

8 1/2" x 1 1/2"

Yellow

You will have noted that you need to cut two rectangles of each size and color except the center one A2. This center square can be dark or an accent color. Its usually best to make a couple of blocks up first before proceeding to piece in assembly-line fashion.

Now that your fabric strips have been cut you can begin sewing your block. Similar to the log cabin you begin construction with the central block and using a 1/4" seam allowance you sew A1 & A3 to either side of the the block. Following the template below continue sewing on the remainder of the strips.

Just a note - when pressing the seams ensure you begin with pressing the seams away from the center square. As you add each new strip to the last again keep the seams all pressed away from the center square. This will give you a block that sits flat and looks stunning.

Photo courtesy of Rowena of the Rants

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