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Learn How to Analyze Patchwork Quilt Blocks

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How to Identify Four-Patch Quilt Blocks
Quilt Blocks

Examples of four patch quilt blocks

© Janet Wickell
We can categorize patchwork quilt blocks by the gridded arrangement of their patches, and refer to them with terms such as four-patch, nine-patch and five-patch. Those terms reveal how a block's grid are arranged, and once you understand how to analyze what I like to think of as block 'bone structure,' designing a quilt is a breeze.

Imagine a grid of squares -- like a piece of graph paper. Each grid can be be subdivided to create more grids, but the basic framework of the initial grid remains the same. Patchwork quilt blocks are exactly the same, and with a little practice you'll instantly recognize their structure.

Four Patch Quilt Blocks

Four-patch quilt blocks are one of the most common in patchwork quilts. They initially contain four equal squares arranged in a grid of two across and two down. You can see that basic grid in the left and middle illustrations above.

Four patch grids in the block on the right have been subdivided, but the block's original four-patch structure is still recognizable. You'll find that most four-patch quilt blocks have subdivided units. Take a look at some of the patterns below to see if you recognize their original grid.

Four-Patch Quilt Block Patterns

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