The only thing I can think is that every time you cut and sew there is a chance for a little distortion or she thought she was keeping it simple.
There is a method for making two 4 patches at a time. I'll try and explain it.
Cut 2 squares, one light and one dark, 1" larger that what you want your finished block to be.
Place the squares right sides together and sew 2 opposite edges. Press.
Cut the squares in half (cutting line parallel to seams)
Open and press seams toward the dark side.
Pin the sewn and pressed squares back together with dark to light and light to dark.
Sew 2 opposite edges together (seams going the opposite way this time.
Cut squares in half again.
Open and press.
If you get all your squares cut and placed together and assembly line sew , you can put a quilt togwther pretty quickly.