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Quilt Block Patterns - Improved Four-Patch Quilt Block Pattern

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Intro to the Improved Four-Patch Quilt Block Pattern
Improved Four Patch Quilt Block Pattern

Improved Four-Patch Quilt Block

© Janet Wickell

Quilt Block Patterns - Improved Four-Patch Quilt Block Pattern

One name for this traditional quilt block is Improved Four-Patch. It's basically a four patch quilt block that's placed on point and surrounded by corner triangles.

Minimal fabric is required for each block, and the design is suitable for a scrap quilt that can draw from your fabric stash. Take a look the quilt layout on page 3. The quilt is made with two different block variations. The same fabrics are used in all quilt blocks, but they're sewn in different portions of the block. To make a quilt, determine if you like a similar structured arrangement, or if you prefer scrappy blocks.

Identical blocks don't work too well when sewn side-by-side, because when all corner triangles are the same, they come together in groups of four (at block intersections) to create a one-color four patch unit. Using two or more colors for your corners takes away the ho-hums and offers much more visual movement.

Finished Quilt Block Size: 11-1/4" x 11-1/4"

Use fabrics as illustrated, or substitute your own colors.

Cutting for ONE Improved Four Patch Quilt Block

Light neutral, apricot to yellowish, for large 4-patch squares: (2) 4-1/2" x 4-1/2" squares

Deep gold for small squares in patchwork 4-patch: (1) strip, 2-1/2" x 11"

Red for small squares in patchwork 4-patch: (1) strip, 2-1/2" x 11"

Dark brown for outer corners: (2) 6-5/8" x 6-5/8" squares, each cut once diagonally to make a total of four corner triangles (corner triangle instructions).

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