With my latest pattern, Irish Ring Quilt, I shared a quick way to make four-patches. I have filmed a tutorial on my Instagram @quiltingfor4 saved in my highlights. Here is the tutorial as well.
First layer two squares that are the same size. Often four-patches are a print and a solid. If you are using two prints, just select one to be the solid/dark so that it helps things stay consistent. Sew 1/4″ down the side. I chain piece them so that it is faster.
The squares below are all still connected. Trim the thread only at the end (this is how to chain piece).
Sew down all the sides and then trim thread, flip the squares and sew down the other side 1/4″.
Both sides of the squares are now connected in one long chain. Separate the squares by trimming the connecting threads on both sides.
Take a square and place the ruler parallel to the seams on the left and right. Cut the square in half. Repeat this for all of the squares.
Press blocks open to the dark side. Place them so that they are diagonal as below. Sew these together, alternating the print so as to keep the diagonal consistent. Do NOT press after sewing these together.
Fold the first square over and cut in half from the edge (not the seam line). There will be one two-patch and one four patch. Set aside the two patch to be joined to the last strip.
For the next four-patch fold the piece over and cut along the edge (2.5 inches again). It yields another four patch with every cut.
Continue folding the side over and trimming along edge until the end is reached. There will be a final two-patch left.
Sew these together to create one last four-patch.
This is a fast and fun method to make four patches! They really are fun to make once you get going.
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