From Ohio native Flossie B. Price’s log cabin comforter made in the early 1900s using fabrics saved from her family’s clothing to Polly Fetherolf ’s log cabin mid-19th-century child’s quilt that warmed her grandchildren, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History quilt collection has many fine examples of the log cabin quilt pattern. Using the online collection as inspiration, students learn about the ever-popular design while making blocks that don’t even need to be quilted.

The technique presented in this workshop is for log cabin designs made with a small tuck and with the strips sewn to backing fabric. Because of the thickness and weight created by the tuck, these covers are not layered with batting, nor are they quilted. Easy techniques for finishing the blocks make this a great project for those new to quilting as well as experienced quilters.

Participants may sew their squares by hand or bring a portable sewing machine to class. A supply list is mailed prior to class.

Instructor Jeanne Benson’s applique design “Heart of Katell” was part of Women of Taste: A Collaboration Celebrating Quilt Artists and Chefs, a Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service exhibit.

7 hours, including a lunch break (participants provide their own lunch)

The American History Museum has an impressive collection of more than 500 quilts and quilt-related items referred to as the National Quilt Collection. View the online collection of log cabin quilts.