SandyinZ4

Hello everyone, Several years ago, I made a QAYG (quilt as you go) denim quilt by cutting up old jeans into circles and sewing together. (See attached picture) I would like to use the same technique, sort of, but use flannel instead. I was wondering if anyone has a way to use "Squares' and still leave the center open to show off the middle fabric. That way I won't waste so much fabric cutting out circles. Thanks for any help or suggestions.