The Log Cabin Barn Raising Quilt Pattern

Quilting is not just about sewing together pieces of fabric; it’s about weaving stories, tradition, and creativity into every stitch. Among the myriad of quilt patterns, the Log Cabin Barn Raising stands out as a timeless favorite, resonating with history and charm. In this article, we delve into the rich heritage and intricate beauty of the Log Cabin Barn Raising pattern, celebrating its enduring appeal among quilters worldwide.

The Origin of the Log Cabin Pattern: The Log Cabin quilt pattern holds a special place in the heart of quilters, with roots that stretch back to the 19th century. Born out of necessity and ingenuity, this pattern is steeped in history, reflecting the resourcefulness of early American settlers. The design is inspired by the log cabins that dotted the frontier landscape, symbolizing resilience, warmth, and community spirit.

The Log Cabin Barn Raising Variation: Within the Log Cabin family, the Barn Raising variation stands out for its striking visual effect and intricate construction. True to its name, this pattern mimics the structure of a barn raising, where neighbors come together to help construct a barn, each contributing their own piece to the collective effort. In the Log Cabin Barn Raising quilt, the blocks are arranged in a concentric pattern, creating the illusion of a central focal point surrounded by a series of “logs.”

The Log Cabin Barn Raising Quilt Pattern

The Log Cabin Barn Raising Quilt Pattern

One of the most appealing aspects of the Log Cabin Barn Raising pattern is its versatility. Quilters can play with color, fabric placement, and block size to create endless variations, from traditional to modern interpretations. Whether you opt for a scrappy look with a mix of fabrics or a more coordinated color scheme, the Barn Raising pattern lends itself beautifully to experimentation and personalization.

For each piece, you will cut one light and one dark. Cut the pieces with the straight grain following the longer side. This will stabilize the block as they are sewn, giving the most strength to the outside edge of the block. It will also make it lay flatter.

Cutting Instructions

For the center A of each block, cut one 2 1/2” square out of medium fabric. For piece B cut one 2 1/2” x 1 1/2” rectangle from light fabrics for each block. For the rest of the pieces (C through H) cut one light and one dark fabric for each block. Using fabrics with at least a 4 jump in the value scale gives a crisp dierence between the dark and light sides of each block.

Number of Blocks:

  • Crib 36
  • Lap 48
  • Twin 96
  • Full 120
  • Queen 144
  • King 225

Sewing Instructions

Sew one light piece B to The center square using a 1/4” seam allowance. Press towards square.

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Sew one light piece C to piece A and B as shown. Press towards piece C. Use a square ruler to check accuracy. Make sure the block measures 3 1/2” square (includes seam allowance) at this point.

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Sew one dark piece C to piece A and C as shown. Press towards dark piece C.

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Sew one dark piece D to pieces C, A and B a as shown. Press towards dark piece D. Use a ruler to check accurancy. Make sure the block measures 4 1/2” (includes seam allowance) square at this point.

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Sew one light piece D to pieces D, B, and C. Press towards piece D.

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Sew one light piece E to pieces C, C, and D. Press towards piece E. Use a ruler to check accuracy. Make sure the block measures 5 1/2” (includes seam allowance) square at this point.

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Sew on dark piece E to pices D, C, and E. Press towards dark piece E.

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Sew one dark piece F to pieces E, D, and D. Press towards dark piece F. Use a ruler to check for accuracy. Make sure the block measures 6 1/2” square (includes seam allowance) at this point.

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Sew one light piece F to pieces F, D and E. Press towards light piece F.d

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Sew one light piece G to pieces E, E and F. Press towards light piece G. Use a ruler to check for accurancy. Make sure the block measures 7 1/2” (includes seam allowance) at this point.

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Sew one dark piece G to pieces F, E and G. Press towards dark piece G.

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Sew one dark piece H to pieces G, F and F as shown. Press towards dark piece H. The block should now measure 8 1/2”. Check this measurement with a ruler.

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When all blocks are made, arrange them on a table, following the pattern on the front page. Start at the center and work out. Diferent size quilts will have more or less ‘rounds’. Sample below is for crib quilt.
Sew blocks together into rows. Press odd number rows to the left, even numbered rows to the right. Sew
rows together, press row seams open.

Diagram

Piece backing fabric if necessary. Layer quilt top, batting and backing. Quilt as desired. Bind quilt.

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