A Guide to Mini Log Cabin Bag Pattern

Assemble Log Cabin Blocks:

Begin by pairing a 1″ square of red print with a 1″ square of cream or light blue print (Diagram 1).

Extend the unit from Step 1 by adding a corresponding cream or light blue print 1×1-1⁄2″ rectangle to the top edge (see Diagram 2).

Attach a dark blue or black print 1×1-1⁄2″ rectangle to the left edge of the unit from Step 2 (as shown in Diagram 3).

Further expand the block by adding a matching dark blue or black print 1×2″ rectangle to the bottom edge of the unit from Step 3 (refer to Diagram 4).

Follow the counterclockwise sequence outlined in Diagram 5, adding rectangles and pressing seams toward the just-added rectangle. Ensure the block measures 4″ including seam allowances.

Repeat steps 1–5 to create a total of 18 blocks.

Assemble Handles:

Combine blue print 5″ squares to create a 5×9-1⁄2″ rectangle (see Diagram 6). Cut the rectangle in half lengthwise, forming two 2-1⁄2×9-1⁄2″ strips for the handles.

With the right side facing inwards, sew together the long raw edges of a strip from Step 1 (refer to Diagram 7). Turn the strip right side out, press, and center the seam on the underside.

Create a handle by sewing four rows of stitching 1⁄4″ apart on the strip from Step 2.

Repeat steps 1–3 to fashion a second handle.

Assemble Bag Body:

Arrange the blocks in six horizontal rows, paying attention to the position of the dark halves of the Log Cabin blocks (see Diagram 8).

Sew the blocks together to form the bag body, pressing the seams in one direction. The bag body should measure 11×21-1⁄2″ including seam allowances.

Position the ends of one handle along one short edge of the bag body, keeping them 3-1⁄2″ from each long edge. Baste in place and repeat with the remaining handle on the opposite short edge.

Align the 11×21-1⁄2″ lining rectangle on top of the 11×21-1⁄2″ batting rectangle with right sides together. Sew the layers together, leaving a 5″ opening for turning (see Diagram 10).

Turn the bag body right side out through the opening and slip-stitch it closed.

Quilt the bag body as desired. Barbara J. Eikmeier, the designer, recommends stitching between each Log Cabin block and topstitching around the bag body.

Finish Bag:

Fold the bag body in half with the right sides and handles together, forming a 10-1⁄2×10-1⁄2″ square (see Diagram 11). Sew the side edges together to complete the bag.

Shape the bag bottom by matching the side seam and bottom center of the bag at one corner to create a flattened triangle (refer to Diagram 12). Measure 1″ from the point of the triangle and draw a 1-1⁄2″-long line across the triangle. Sew on the drawn line. Repeat this process with the remaining corner.

Turn the bag right side out to complete the finished bag.