Free Printable Log Cabin Cross Quilt Pattern – Looking for a free printable Log Cabin Cross quilt pattern? This classic design blends the traditional Log Cabin block with a meaningful cross motif. It works well as a wall hanging, small quilt, or faith-inspired project for American quilters who enjoy scrap-friendly, beginner-accessible piecing.
The pattern uses light and dark fabric values to form the cross shape from two square Log Cabin blocks and two rectangular ones. Finished size is approximately 24½” x 36½” before borders or adjustments, making it ideal for a quick wall hanging or gift.
What Is a Log Cabin Cross Quilt Pattern?
The Log Cabin block starts with a center square and builds outward with strips (“logs”) of fabric, traditionally light on one side and dark on the other. Arranging specific Log Cabin units creates a cross. The design carries both historical American quilting roots (popular since the Civil War era) and symbolic meaning for many makers.
It is scrap-friendly, uses simple straight seams, and suits intermediate beginners who already know basic strip piecing and pressing.
Where to Get the Free Printable Log Cabin Cross Quilt Pattern?
The most widely referenced free version comes from Irene of Sweet Seasons of Life. The original tutorial includes full cutting lists for the square and rectangle Log Cabin units, center cross strips, and borders, plus assembly notes.
Access the free pattern and instructions here:
Log Cabin Cross free tutorial – Sweet Seasons of Life
A clearer rehosted version with organized cutting and assembly steps is also available:
Log Cabin Cross pattern – Quilting Wonders
Print the page or copy the cutting chart and instructions for offline use. Many quilters report success by laying out all pieces on a design wall before sewing.
Free Printable Log Cabin Cross Quilt Pattern
Materials and Basic Construction Tips
Typical requirements (adjust based on your fabric choices and exact size):
- Center squares and cross fabric
- Light-value fabrics for one side of the logs
- Dark-value fabrics for the opposite side
- Border fabrics
- Backing, batting, and binding
Key construction points:
- Make two 9½” square Log Cabin blocks and two 9½” x 20½” rectangle Log Cabin blocks.
- Build each block by adding strips around the center, alternating light and dark sides and pressing toward the newest strip.
- Join the units with the center cross strips to form the overall cross shape.
- Add borders and finish with quilting and binding of your choice.
Accurate ¼” seams and careful pressing help the units fit together cleanly. Some makers note minor trimming may be needed depending on personal seam allowance—laying everything out first prevents surprises.
Related Free Log Cabin Resources
For additional free Log Cabin block practice or full quilt ideas, these trusted sources offer printable or downloadable patterns:
- Free paper-pieced Log Cabin block (great for accuracy with narrow strips): Generations Quilt Patterns – Easy Log Cabin
- Collection of free Log Cabin quilt projects and tutorials: SewCanShe – 27 Free Log Cabin Patterns
These complement the Cross design if you want to expand into larger projects or practice the basic block.
Tips for Success with Your Log Cabin Cross Quilt
Choose high-contrast light and dark fabrics so the cross stands out clearly. Solids, tone-on-tones, or small prints work well. Stash scraps are perfect for the logs.
Work methodically: cut all pieces first, organize by light/dark and size, then sew one unit at a time. A design wall or large flat surface helps visualize the cross before final assembly.
Quilt simply in the ditch, with straight lines following the logs, or add free-motion designs in the open areas. A hanging sleeve turns the finished piece into an easy wall display.
FAQ
Is the Log Cabin Cross pattern truly free and printable?
Yes. The Sweet Seasons of Life tutorial and the Quilting Wonders rehost provide complete free instructions and cutting lists that you can print or save.
What skill level is required?
Confident beginners who can sew accurate ¼” seams and press consistently will do well. Prior Log Cabin experience is helpful but not essential.
Can I make a larger version?
The original is a small wall hanging. You can enlarge blocks proportionally or use the same units in a multi-block layout for a lap or bed quilt. Paid commercial patterns also offer larger sizes if preferred.
Where else can I find free Log Cabin patterns?
Sites such as Generations Quilt Patterns and SewCanShe regularly share free downloadable or printable Log Cabin blocks and full projects suitable for U.S. quilters.
The free printable Log Cabin Cross quilt pattern offers a satisfying, meaningful project that honors traditional techniques while creating a striking finished piece. Print the instructions from the linked sources, gather your fabrics, and start piecing—your next wall hanging or gift is only a few seams away. Happy quilting!