This quilt is basically an experiment with the Log Cabin concept of laying up strips from a center block, as you would build a log cabin itself. Here I started with an equilateral triangle, which in two steps resolves into a regular hexagon. The strips are all 1/4" in width, and there are thirteen layers around the center triangle.

Each hexagon is 8 1/8" in diameter. There are 79 pieces in each block. By playing with the value and color of the strips, I was able to create a piece containing variations on this one block. Even though each of the blocks appears very different from the others (which can be seen more clearly in the larger JPEG image (26K)), the blocks are actually identical structurally. In one the axes alternate between light and dark, red and blue; in another the colors move through the spectrum gradually shifting from yellow to red through all the values. Another variation has each round the same color, creating a stunning optical effect. The center one is built up spirally, creating motion and depth.

As is seen in the other quilts shown at this site, these hexagon blocks are constructed using a paper foundation. This makes it easier to work with such narrow strips and aids in the precision of the blocks, which is very important for the visual effects.

I have wanted to play with this design for quite some time. I made this quilt for a friend as a gift, knowing she would enjoy the mental exercise that all works in a "Variation on a Theme" genre provoke. It also provides a source of dialog with visitors who are curious about the underlying structure and the effects it can produce.