I am fairly new to quilting, been about 2 and a half years. I have made a few quilts. With each quilt I expand myself with new challenges. Now this latest challenge I could use a bit of help, and where better to ask then here.
I have a panel. I want to use 4 inch blocks for the quilt. The panel is squared up so that is fine. What would be the best way to do these blocks and to have the panel in the middle.
Should I build around it? Make strips of the blocks and build down?
Your ideas would be greatly appriciated

I think you've got it.

(and I'm assuming the blocks are 4" FINISHED.)

You would join the 4" blocks into a strip that would be the length of the panel.

If the panel size is not evenly divisible by 4" (let's say it's 26" x26" finished), then you could put a 1" filler strip (cut 1.5) at each end so you would get to the correct length.

Make 2 of those and attach them to each side of the panel.

Same for the top and bottom. You'd make a strip of 6 of the 4" blocks, add the 1" coping strips on each end, and then another 4" block for the corner blocks.

The coping strips could be a coordinating fabric(s). As long as you're using it in all 4 corners in the same place, it will look like it's part of the design. You could do a more involved design - let's say use only 4 blocks, which leave an additional 10" to fill. You could use 2" spacers between the blocks. As long as when you're done, you've got a 26.5" strip (excl. the corner blocks).

Also, if your blocks are directional, take care when making the strips so they end up orientated the way you want when attached to the panel.

I always prefer to put the sides on and then top and bottom (especially if I'm not mitering).

Does that make sense?

Yes it does make sense. I too had thought about putting the sides on then the top and bottom. Thank you so much for the tips