I'd use a combination of both. One large patch with 4 or 9 patch blocks on either side of it. If I begin a row with a large patch, the next row I'd begin with a 4 or 9 patch block, continuing to alternate the blocks each row. (It forms a diagonal pattern when completed). This idea has been kicking around my scrap pile for a while now. I'll just have to put this on my "to do" list.