DONE!
I only meant to clear out a bunch of old strips - none of the strips seemed like they would "go" well together, but sometimes a person has to try new things. The last logs were the darkest - good plan! I WAS trying out the Creative Grids 6 inch Log Cabin Trim ruler, feeling positive and smug that it would add nothing to the process but, uhhhh, I WAS PLEASANTLY SURPRISED with the accurate result! The original casually-cut leftover strips were anywhere from 2 inches to "sorta" 1 1/4 inches. Narrow strips have a tendency to wobble and stretch during construction and pressing, and the ruler is designed to trim up the logs perfectly after each round. Logs finish at 3/4 inch.
The back - it is surprising how homely fabric cut into squares and set into some sort of pattern can make a pretty backing! I've used this technique frequently, cutting the squares at various sizes, depending on the size of the quilt. How far back does that red gingham go?
I found it helpful to draw the backing needed onto graph paper to help determine how many of each square was needed. Save the extras for another quilt backing.
This will be a donation quilt - but I LOVE looking at it for now!