Quick Four Patch Block

A four patch is a very common unit in many different quilt patterns and is made from four pieces of fabric. While there are several different ways to create a four patch unit, Toby Lischko shows you a quick and easy way to make one that uses less time, less thread, and lays flat when pressed.

Four Patch Quilt Block

Toby first begins by explaining what a four patch unit is. She then shows how to cut the fabric for the unit. While you would normally cut all of your pieces separately, or using another method of choice, Toby shows how the fabric must be cut in order for her method for making the four patch unit work correctly. This requires that two different colored fabrics are used and that they are positioned correctly and then cut at the same time.

After she demonstrates how to do this, she shows which side of the fabric pairs needs to be facing up while stitching. Toby explains when learning how to make a four patch quilt block, as well as with any quilt piecing, it is important to have an accurate and consistent ¼” seam allowance. She explains how she likes to measure and mark her seams for stitching.

Toby then shows how to stitch the first two seams of the four patch unit, one right after another. Once those seams are stitched, Toby shows how to open them up and finger press the seam.

Then, without even trimming the thread, she shows how the fabric can be aligned and the final seam stitched. By using this method for making a four patch quilt block, you can save time, thread and make sure that all of the right fabrics stay together within the unit.

While four patch quilt blocks are units within many quilt designs, you can easily make variations on them including how to make a disappearing four patch quilt. You can also use them when learning how to create your own quilt blocks.