Two colors - two 4-patches
 

I came up with a way to make two 4-patches with two squares of fabric. It's similar to the method used in the Missour Star Quilt Co's video, but I used two different fabrics which result in two similar 4-patch blocks.

Determine the size of finished block you want, then add 1/2" to allow for the 1/4" seams. In my case, I used 4-1/2" blocks that resulted in two 4" 4-patches.

First step: Select two contrasting fabrics, place right sides together, then sew a 1/4" seam on 2 sides across from each other. Then cut in half between the two seams. (See pic below).

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Step 2: Set seams, then press seams to dark side:

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Step 3: Place squares right sides together, with dark on top of light and vice versa (see pic):

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Step 4: Lock seams, then sew on two sides ACROSS the seams in the pieces you just made:

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Step 5: Cut in half across the horizontal seam:

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Step 6: Set seams, and press both open, resulting in this:

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And your done!

Quick and easy. I like it! Thanks for sharing.

I like that too. Thanks!

I sawthis 10 or more years ago on Alex Anderson's show. I took it one stepfurther and make 9 patches the same way. For instance: using two squares (easilydivisible by 3). Using 9" squares sew the two outside seams, cut at 3" in from each side, add the loose strip to the appropriatesection, turn as in step 3 in tute, sew outside, cut at 3" in from eachside, and sew the appropriate extra piece to it's section. Works slick.<o:p></o:p>
Keep inmind labeelady that if you’ve neverseen anyone do it, then you did create this method for yourself. Thanks for sharing with the board.<o:p></o:p>

Great way to make 4-patches using 5" charm squares.

I like this. Simple and a great way to use those scraps, which I have plenty of. Thanks for posting.

Thanks for posting the photos and clear directions. This method is new to me. I look forward to trying it.

I saw the same tutorial and I tried it loved it then turned into a disappearing 4 patch. DH saw it and said "So how long is it going to take you to cut out the rest of the little pieces?' He has a technique he uses to make certain things. I told him it was the same process. Use couple pieces, join then cut.

I like this and saved it. I plan on trying this, if I can remember it. Thanks for posting this.

love it! and I love the tutorials here. I rarely go online anywhere else searching for them I hate all the stuff you have to go through to find something good. This is new to me btw and thank you so much for sharing it. what a great easy idea!

great idea.....thanks for sharing

Good job Labee and thanks for sharing it with me.

Hugs

Vickey S.

Great idea!!! Thanks for sharing!!!

thanks for the tutorial. You make it look so easy!!

Well, that's just too easy ! Now, I'll have to try it ! Thank you ! :)

Thanks!!!!!!!

yes thanks for the info always nice to get short cuts

Nice tutorial.

Great tutorial - thank you!

Often such easy steps, we don't think about....but I found this great and it just makes the block making this much faster!! Thanks for sharing :)

Did you save it on the board??? If so, can you please tell me where I can do that???? Thanks :)

I think she saved it to her computer, however I also have it blogged on here, so if you lose track of the pattern, just go to my blog here on the QB.

Love it, love it! Gonna be using it on memory quilt!!

Love these simple little tricks!

I love it. Thanks for sharing.

I love it. Thanks for sharing.

One of the guilds I belong to is having short cuts demo at our next meeting. May I demonstrate your method? I haven't been able to use my sewing machine for almost two months (yikes!) or even go to the meetings due to health issues with both of my parents. I am hoping to go to them in June to give me some "my time" ! Sewing is my relaxation and I need to do something soon!!!!

Sure...not sure if it is "my method", but it's one I stumbled on that works. It's a spin-off of the way I learned to make 9-patches.