The Courthouse Steps block is log-cabin-ish, but not exactly a log cabin. It does have a centre square and bars surrounding it, but the bars do not rotate around, they go top and bottom first and sides next. I don’t know if this is easier or harder than a traditional log cabin, but it is different. As long as you keep checking the layout, it should not be too hard.
See it All
Below you will find:
- fabric requirements
- video tutorial
- step-by-step written tutorial with pictures
- instructions for different sizes
- inspiration for using the block in a quilt
Fabric Requirements
This tutorial is for a two-fabric block. For other options, substitute the fabrics for the ones that fit your layout.
These sizes make a 12″ finished block. For other size options, scroll down or get the Courthouse Steps Inspiration Workbook.
Colour A
- 3-1/2″ square
- two 2″ x 6-1/2″
- two 2″ x 9-1/2″
- two 2″ x 12-1/2″
Colour B
- two 2″ x 3-1/2″
- two 2″ x 6-1/2″
- two 2″ x 9-1/2″
Tutorial
See each step in the process, with images to help guide you.
First Round
Begin with the 3-1/2″ square.
Add the 3-1/2″ strip onto opposite sides using a 1/4″ seam allowance.
All seams will be pressed away from the centre square regardless of colour.
This piece should now be 6-1/2″ long. If it isn’t, now is the time to adjust your seam allowance.
Add the colour A 6-1/2″ strips to opposite sides of this piece.
Next Rounds
Make the rest of the rounds in the same way.
Add the colour B strips and then the colour A strips.
Once all the strips are added, the block is complete.
The block will be 12-1/2″ square, so it will be 12″ square in a quilt.
Make the block any size
It is easy to make this block in whatever size you want.
Begin with whatever size centre square you want and add strips of fabric to the opposite sides.
Example – 8″ block
These sizes will make a block that finishes at 8″
Fabric A
- one 2-1/2″ square
- two 1-1/2″ x 4-1/2″
- two 1-1/2″ x 6-1/2″
- two 1-1/2″ x 8-1/2″
Fabric B
- two 1-1/2″ x 2-1/2″
- two 1-1/2″ x 4-1/2″
- two 1-1/2″ x 6-1/2″
Join the pieces in the same way as the tutorial, working on opposite sides of the centre square.
Using the block in a quilt
This block can be substituted in any place that that uses an hourglass block.
For more quilt inspiration, get the Courthouse Steps Inspiration Workbook.
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Elizabeth DeCroos
Elizabeth DeCroos is the designer and teacher at Epida Studio. She loves to work in quilting, pojagi and embroidery and teach these techniques to others.
Learn more and get her to speak to your group.