How To Make the Half Log Cabin Block with the Creative Grids Log Cabin Trim Tool

The Creative Grids® Log Cabin Trim Tool is known for producing precise traditional log cabin and courthouse steps blocks—but it can also create a striking third variation: the Half Log Cabin block.

This block has a completely different visual effect, with the center positioned in the corner rather than the middle. The result is a dynamic, directional design that creates movement when blocks are combined.

In this tutorial, we’ll walk through how to make an 8″ finished Half Log Cabin block, noting the important differences from the traditional log cabin and courthouse steps methods.

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What Makes the Half Log Cabin Different?

Unlike traditional log cabin and courthouse steps blocks:

• The center square sits in the corner, not the middle.
• Two sides of the block are not trimmed until the final round.
• The trim tool is rotated differently during later rounds.
• The trimming process changes after Round 3.

Because of these differences, careful orientation and attention to the trimming sequence are essential.

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Tools and Preparation

• Creative Grids® Log Cabin Trim Tool (4″, 6″, or 8″)
• Printed Half Log Cabin Sewing & Trimming Sequence for your tool size
• Rotary cutter and mat (a spinning mat is especially helpful)
• Fabric strips (light and dark values)
• Sewing machine set to a scant .25″ seam allowance

For this tutorial, we’re using the 8″ trim tool. Always confirm that your sewing and trimming sequence matches the size tool you’re using.

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Step 1: Cut the Center Square

For the 8″ Half Log Cabin block:

• Cut the center square to 2.75″

Note: The larger center square allows two sides of the block to remain untrimmed until the final round. This is different from the traditional log cabin method.

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Round 1

Cut:

• Light strip: 1.75″ × 2.75″
• Dark strip: 1.75″ × 4″

Sew:

1. Attach the light strip to the center square (right sides together).
2. Press away from the center.
3. Add the dark strip.
4. Press away from the center.

Trim:

• Orient the block so the center square sits in the lower-left corner.
• Place the trim tool so the top and right sides of the round one square align with the seam lines.
• Trim the top and right edges only.

Important: The diagram may not show excess fabric extending below or to the left of the tool frame. This is normal. As long as the seam lines align correctly, you are positioned properly.

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Round 2

Sew:

1. Re-orient the block so the center square remains in the lower-left corner.
2. Add the next light strip.
3. Press away from the center.
4. Add the next strip below.
5. Press again.

Trim:

• Align the tool using the Round 2 markings.
• Frame the seam lines in the lower-left corner.
• Trim the top and right sides only.

Continue maintaining the same orientation before each round.

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Round 3

Sew:

• Add strips as indicated in your trimming sequence.
• Press away from the center after each seam.

Trim:

• Align using the Round 3 markings.
• Trim the top and right edges.

Up through Round 3, the process feels similar to the previous blocks.

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Rounds 4–6: Where the Process Changes

This is where the Half Log Cabin method differs significantly.

You may notice:

• The trim tool only shows Round 1, 2, and 3 markings.
• Your block has additional rounds beyond what appears labeled on the tool.

Key Instruction:

Rotate the trim tool 180 degrees.

The lettering on the ruler will appear upside down relative to you.

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Round 4

After sewing the next strips:

• With the tool rotated 180°, align the Round 2 square with the seam lines.
• Trim the top and right edges only.

Perform a quick visual check:

• If the amount being trimmed looks consistent with previous rounds, you're positioned correctly.
• If alignment looks drastically different, re-check orientation before cutting.

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Round 5

After adding the next strips:

• Keep the tool rotated.
• Align the Round 1 square with the seam lines.
• Trim the top and right edges.

Again, confirm alignment visually before trimming.

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Final Round and Final Trim

After adding the final two strips:

1. Keep the tool in its rotated position.
2. Locate the marking labeled “Half Log Cabin.”
3. Align that corner square marking with the seam lines.

For the first time in this process, you will:

• Trim all four sides of the block.

A rotating mat is ideal here since you can rotate the mat rather than lifting the block.

After trimming fully around the ruler, your Half Log Cabin block is complete.

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Why This Method Works

The Half Log Cabin construction method:

• Preserves two sides of the block until the final trim
• Allows precise shaping of the corner-based design
• Maintains consistent sizing across rounds
• Produces a clean, professional result—even for beginners

Without the trim tool, this block would require significantly more measuring and recalculating at each stage.

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Design Possibilities

When combined in a quilt layout, Half Log Cabin blocks can create:

• Diagonal movement
• Wave-like patterns
• Strong directional designs
• Modern geometric layouts

They are also excellent for using up scraps, making them ideal for stash-busting projects.

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Summary

The Creative Grids® Log Cabin Trim Tool can create:

• Traditional Log Cabin blocks
• Courthouse Steps blocks
• Half Log Cabin blocks

While the Half Log Cabin requires additional attention to orientation and ruler rotation, the process is straightforward once you understand the trimming adjustments in Rounds 4–6.

With careful alignment and trimming, even complex-looking designs become approachable and precise.