Modern Log Cabin Block

The log cabin block is one of the most iconic quilt blocks of all time—rich with history, symbolism, and endless design possibilities. But if you’re ready to give this classic a fresh update, you’re in the right place!

In today’s tutorial, we’re putting a modern twist on the traditional log cabin block. With bold color placement, asymmetry, and negative space, this version is perfect for contemporary quilts that still nod to tradition.

🧵 Why We Love the Log Cabin (Still!)

The traditional log cabin block represents home and hearth—the center square often symbolizing the heart of the home. It’s endlessly adaptable, easy to piece, and a great scrap buster. But in a modern setting? It becomes something new entirely: minimal, graphic, and full of possibilities.

✨ What Makes It Modern?

We’re mixing things up by:
- Playing with asymmetry and negative space
- Using bold solids or high-contrast prints
- Incorporating wider or varied-width logs
Rotating blocks for a dynamic layout

🧵 Fabric Selection Tips

Modern log cabins shine with the right fabric choices. Here’s how to choose with intention:

Start with a focal fabric or bold center square. Solids, textures, or even fussy cuts work beautifully.
Use a limited palette—3 to 5 colors for a cohesive, contemporary look.
Consider value contrast (light vs. dark) to make your design pop.

Don’t shy away from negative space! Try using white, gray, or other low-volume tones for one side of the block.

✂️ What You’ll Need (Per Block)

Feel free to adjust the measurements or log widths to suit your style! This example creates a 12½″ unfinished block.

Center square A: (1) 3½″ × 3½″
Logs:
- Log B: 2″ × 3½″
- Log C: 2″ × 5″
- Log D: 2″ × 5″
- Log E: 2″ × 6½″
- Log F: 2″ × 6½″
- Log G: 2″ × 8″
- Log H: 2″ × 8″
- Log I: 2″ × 9½″
- Log J: 2″ × 9½″
- Log K: 2″ × 11″
- Log L: 2″ × 11″
- Log M: 2″ × 12½″

💡 Want to go more modern? Mix up your strip widths (try 1½″, 2″, and 2½″ logs in one block)! This will create a more improvisational piecing experience or you can use some graph paper to plan out your block with different widths.

🪡 Step-by-Step: Modern Log Cabin Block

Follow along with the printable PDF version of the pattern HERE!

Start with your center square.
Choose a fabric that makes a statement—it’ll set the tone for your block.
Add logs clockwise.
After each log, press seams to the side. Accuracy matters here, so take your time.
Keep going round by round.
Varying your color placement adds modern interest. For example, try keeping all cool tones on one side and warm tones on the other.

Square up as needed.
Trim your block to 12½″ unfinished. Repeat for as many blocks as you’d like!

Pro-tip! – to keep your block square it is important to use an accurate seams. Check your seams with some scraps to make sure it is ¼″. If you have issues with the logs being too short or long you can find the center of the log and block by folding it in half. Start by pinning the center, then pin the ends. Add as many other pins as you need. This will help match the widths and keep your block square.

Layout Ideas

Once you have a few blocks, try playing with layout options:

Rotate blocks for movement and modern flair
Use solid fabric for Sashing to give your blocks breathing room
Use all one color family (like cool blues) for a modern monochrome quilt

Modern log cabin blocks are a great way to experiment with color, composition, and improvisation—while still honoring one of quilting’s most beloved building blocks. Whether you make one for a pillow or a whole quilt top, the possibilities are wide open.

Want to keep this tutorial handy?
Sign up for my newsletter and get a free printable version of this Modern Log Cabin pattern HERE!