Grandma’s Kitchen Block 3 – By Pat Sloan
If you are looking for a fun, practical, and creative sewing project, the Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern is a fantastic choice. This timeless design combines the charm of the log cabin block with the unique shape of a hexagon, making it both functional and decorative for your kitchen. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced quilter, this project offers an enjoyable sewing experience.
The Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern is not just a simple potholder; it’s a mini quilt masterpiece. It allows you to play with colors, fabric scraps, and layout variations while mastering the log cabin technique in a smaller, manageable format. The hexagon shape adds an extra touch of elegance and style, making it perfect for gifts or personal use.
In this article, you will learn exactly how to create the Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern, with clear fabric cuts, detailed steps, and expert tips. We will walk you through everything from choosing the right fabrics to assembling the final binding, ensuring your potholder turns out beautifully every time.
To start your Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern, the first step is gathering all the necessary materials. Choosing high-quality cotton fabrics will ensure durability, especially since potholders are often exposed to heat and regular use.
You will need fabric for the center, log cabin strips, backing, binding, and heat-resistant batting. Opt for colorful prints or solids that complement your kitchen decor or make it a vibrant patchwork using leftover scraps.
For the center hexagon, cut 1 piece measuring 2.5 inches on each side of the hexagon. This will be the heart of your log cabin design.
For the log cabin strips, prepare 12 strips measuring 1.5 inches wide. The length will vary as you build each round around the hexagon, typically starting from 3 inches up to 7 inches, depending on the placement.
The backing requires one hexagon measuring 9 inches point-to-point to fully cover the backside. Choose a fabric that coordinates or contrasts beautifully with your front design.
For the potholder to be functional, include one layer of heat-resistant batting (like Insul-Bright) and one layer of cotton batting, both cut into the same 9-inch hexagon shape.
Lastly, prepare binding strips by cutting 2.25-inch wide bias strips, totaling approximately 40 inches in length to go around the hexagon edges smoothly.
Cutting fabric correctly is crucial for the success of your Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern. Precision ensures that all pieces fit together neatly and that your potholder lies flat without puckering.
Start by cutting your center hexagon. Use a hexagon template measuring 2.5 inches on each side. This will form the center focus point for your log cabin construction.
Next, prepare your log cabin strips. Begin with two strips measuring 1.5 x 3 inches for the first round. As you move to subsequent rounds, increase the length by approximately 1 inch per side added.
You will typically need strips measuring 1.5 x 3 inches, 1.5 x 4 inches, 1.5 x 5 inches, and so on, depending on how many rounds you want around the center hexagon.
The backing should be cut as a large hexagon measuring 9 inches from point to point. You can make your own template or use a quilting ruler designed for hexagons.
For the batting, cut both the heat-resistant layer and the cotton layer to match the 9-inch hexagon backing. This will give your potholder the right thickness and heat protection.
Binding requires a bias cut to smoothly navigate the hexagon’s angles. Cut strips 2.25 inches wide and join them diagonally until you have about 40 inches in total length.
Double-check all cuts before starting the sewing process. Accurate cutting leads to cleaner, more professional results in your Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern.
Begin your Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern by attaching the first strip to one side of the center hexagon. Place right sides together and sew with a 1/4-inch seam allowance, then press the seam open or to the side.
Continue by adding the second strip adjacent to the first. Always work in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction to maintain the log cabin layout. Each strip builds upon the last, wrapping around the hexagon.
For each round, measure and cut the strip to fit the growing hexagon. Typical rounds start with 3 inches, then increase to 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, and sometimes more for larger potholders.
Sew the third and fourth strips to complete the first round. Press seams after each addition to keep the block flat and crisp. This helps with accuracy as the pattern grows.
Once you finish the log cabin rounds to your desired size, layer your top piece with the batting. Place the heat-resistant batting against the backing fabric, then layer the cotton batting and your log cabin top.
Quilt through all the layers to hold everything in place. You can quilt by stitching in the ditch along the log cabin seams or use decorative stitching for added flair.
Now it’s time to finish your Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern by adding the binding. Fold your bias binding strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press to create a crease.
Align the raw edges of the binding with the raw edges of the potholder. Start on one side, leaving a tail of about 5 inches for joining later. Use clips or pins to hold the binding in place.
As you approach each corner or point of the hexagon, stop with the needle down, pivot the fabric, and ease the binding around the angle. Bias binding naturally stretches, helping navigate the curves.
Continue sewing the binding all around the potholder until you return to the starting point. Join the binding tails by folding one inside the other and sewing securely.
Fold the binding over to the back and hand-stitch or machine-stitch in place. This encloses all the raw edges and gives your potholder a clean, professional finish.
For an optional touch, add a small fabric loop before finishing the binding if you want to hang your Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern. Simply fold a 2 x 5-inch strip, sew it lengthwise, and attach it to one corner before binding.
The Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern is not only beautiful but also practical. It’s machine washable, durable, and can withstand regular kitchen use thanks to the heat-resistant batting.
These potholders make excellent handmade gifts for friends and family. You can personalize them with favorite colors, themed fabrics, or even holiday prints to match different seasons.
This pattern is also a great way to use fabric scraps creatively. The small log cabin strips are perfect for leftover fabrics from larger quilting projects.
If you enjoy selling handmade goods, the Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern is a popular choice at craft fairs and online shops. Its unique hexagon shape stands out from typical square potholders.
For added variety, try experimenting with different log cabin layouts, such as light and dark sides or rainbow gradients. The versatility of this pattern keeps it fun and fresh every time you make it.
In conclusion, making a Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern is a rewarding project that combines beauty, functionality, and creativity. With the detailed steps and fabric measurements provided, you’re ready to create a potholder that you’ll be proud to use or gift.
Can beginners make the Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern?
Yes! This pattern is beginner-friendly with simple straight-line sewing and clear steps.
What fabrics are best for this pattern?
100% cotton fabrics are ideal for durability, heat resistance, and ease of sewing.
Do I have to use heat-resistant batting?
It’s highly recommended for safety, especially if the potholder will be used for hot cookware.
Can I use machine binding instead of hand binding?
Absolutely. Machine binding is quicker and just as effective, especially for kitchen items.
What size should my finished potholder be?
The finished Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern typically measures about 9 inches across point-to-point.
Can I make this pattern larger or smaller?
Yes, simply adjust the size of the center hexagon and the length of your log cabin strips.
The Log Cabin Hexi Potholder Pattern is a delightful project for anyone who loves sewing and quilting. It combines the traditional charm of log cabin designs with the unique appeal of a hexagon shape, offering endless possibilities for color and creativity. With this step-by-step guide, you now have everything you need to create a beautiful, functional potholder. Try it today and add a handmade touch to your kitchen or gift something truly special to someone you love. Have questions or suggestions? Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
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