Exploring Quilting Basics: How to Make the Disappearing 4 Patch Block

Welcome to our series exploring the basics of quilting! Last time, we discussed how to do a fusible appliqué. Next time, we’ll be looking at the stitch and flip quilt technique. To see all the posts in this series, click here. 

 

Hi friends!

Today in the Exploring the Basics series, Tammy and I are going to discuss the Disappearing 4 Patch block. I am going to show you 2 different methods that end up with 2 different looking blocks.

For each of these methods, I started with 5″ squares. I thought that was a great size as you can use charm squares!

Disappearing 4 Patch Block – Method 1

Step 1: Make a 4 Patch Block

Similar to the Disappearing Nine Patch block, this block starts with a basic  block. This time it is a 4 patch. Easy peasy.

Step 2: Then you cut it up!

Start by cutting the block, 1″ from the center seam on 2 sides.

 

Then cut the other 2 sides.

Using a rotating cutting mat, or just rotating your mat, will be very helpful here so you don’t have to do cutting gymnastics!

Step 3: Move the pieces around

Now the first step is to rotate the center block one turn.

Then swap the corner squares. The long skinny pieces don’t move!

Step 4: Sew it back together

Now sew the block together.

Tada! The blocks should measure 8 ½” x 8½”.

 

Disappearing 4 Patch Block – Method 2

Step 1: Make 2 four patch blocks. 

For this method, start with 2 different 4 patch blocks. My blocks happen to have the same light fabric but they don’t have to; you can use different backgrounds for each.

Step 2: Cut them up!

To cut these 2 blocks, start by cutting a strip 2 ½” wide from each side and set the rectangles aside.

Take the center unit and cut a 2 ½” wide strip from each side.

Do this for both blocks!

Step 3: Mix and Match

Now you get to decide if you want to mix up the units with all the same fabric in a block or mix and match the blocks.

If you use one color, they will look like this:

 

If you mix the colors, they will look like this:

Which I think is more fun so that is how I made mine.

 

Step 4: Sew the rows together.

Start by sewing the pieces in the center row together.

Next you will add the top and bottom rows.

You will notice that they are longer than the center row. Match up the centers of the rows and then once the block is sewn, trim the top and bottom rows.

The blocks should measure 8 ½” x 8½”.

I hope you have fun making  your own disappearing four patch blocks! Click here to see see what great tips Tammy has for you!

Like this tutorial to make the Disappearing 4 Patch Block? Pin It!

happy quilting!

Kate