How to Make Four-Patch Quilt Blocks

One of the easiest to make of all quilt blocks, Four-Patch consists of four equal-size squares that can be assembled by sewing two straight seams. (Technically speaking, any block based on a four-sector grid is called a four-patch block, but this simple checkerboard block is the one most quilters call a Four-Patch.)

Two Ways to Assemble Four-Patch Blocks

There are two basic ways to sew together a Four-Patch block:

• Sew together individual fabric squaresin a pattern of alternating light and dark squares. Your squares should all be the same size.
• Rotary cut strips of light and dark fabrics (or even easier, put together precut strips from purchased rolls of fabric strips called jelly rolls). Your strips should all be of the same width.

Instructions for Sewing a Four-Patch Block from Individual Squares (scroll down to the bottom of the article for step-by-step photos):

1. Place two equal-size fabric squares, one light and one dark, with right sides together.
2. Sew the squares together with a scant ¼” seam, then press the seam to the side with the darker fabric.
3. Lay together two light-dark units, right sides together, so the center seams “nest” or lock together, with the seam allowances pressed away from each other. (Check to make sure your squares form a checkerboard, light-dark pattern.)
4. Sew the two units together and press the seam to one side.

Instructions for Strip-Piecing a Four-Patch Block from Fabric Strips

1. Lay one strip of light fabric and one of dark fabric with right sides together.
2. Sew with a scant ¼” seam along one long side of the paired strips, then press the seam to the side with the darker fabric.
3. Use a rotary cutter and a see-through ruler to cut the strips into smaller units, each with a checkerboard pattern of two light squares and two darker squares.
4. Lay together two light-dark units, right sides together, so the center seams “nest” or lock together, with the seam allowances pressed away from each other. (Check to make sure your squares form a checkerboard, light-dark pattern.)
5. Sew the two units together and press the seam to one side.

Four-Patch Quilt Layouts

Four-Patch blocks can be combined with other blocks to create an endless variety of quilt designs. The layout shown below offsets the four-square units with plain squares, to make it easier for you to see the four-patch blocks.

Using Color and Value in Four-Patch Blocks

As with other quilt blocks, the final look of your quilt will depend greatly on how much contrast you choose to have between your light and dark fabrics. For a strong checkerboard look, use pale light fabrics and rich darks. You can create a very different look by choosing fabrics that are closer in value to each other. A four-patch block made from pastel solids and patterned fabrics with similar values can really soften the look of your quilt.

An Easy Four-Patch Quilt Layout

Finished Four-Patch block

How to Make a Four-Patch from Squares

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