Great Quilt Pattern - Disappearing Four Patch

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[@stampysister]

Been quilting 30 years...never even close to doing all the blocks. I love things that are a never ending well of knowledge

[@kimbetts4282]

Gosh, darn it! Now that's another quilt I 'have' to make😂 my sewing list is growing dear friend and it's all your fault 😂. Maybe this year my blue and white quilt will actually get made...I quite like this easy pattern. Thank you for another great idea Cathy ❤

[@christinahall3318]

Cathy! Cathy! Cathy! Whew! So beautiful and so informative. I didn’t know about the various layouts - never too late to learn. I absolutely love the PINK quilt (as you knew I would) BUT the blue one is going to be so gorgeous! This was, once again, so enlightening. Thank you Sis! Sew On!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Christina! And yes, I knew you would LOVE that pink---but I'm glad you like the blue too! I think it is going to be really pretty!

[@christinahall3318]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts one of my nieces is having a sweet baby girl in April. My niece is a very neutral colored gal so her sweet daughter is getting a tan and white disappearing 4 patch. The tan fabric has a tiny white flower vine all over it and it is already adorable. I now have to decide how I want to do the layout. I will attempt to send a pic to you. What is the best way?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Email or IG! Instagram probably the easiest for me, and most likely way you'll get a quick response! 😘

[@k-creationskristinhuxford4531]

I did a disappearing four patch and instead of cutting perfect straight lines, I cut them off kilter. It backfired because I wasn’t expecting to lose so much fabric to make them square again but the result was very cool. I would suggest starting with a large square when sewing the four patches, like 10 inch squares if you try it. I started with a 5 inch square and in my opinion it was not large enough.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I can totally see that---*especially* if cut off kilter!

[@kimnambiar5884]

You doing exceptionally well considering 3 years plus of quilting on top of your full time job. You are so meticulous and inspiring!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much, Kim! ❤️

[@sharonmika4786]

I love making disappearing blocks, especially nine patch! Great video!👍🏻💕💫

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Sharon! ❤️

[@Sylvie_M]

You bring so much joy and inspiration to Friday mornings! Beautiful project!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thank you so much, Sylvie!

[@AppLady87]

Cathy, I know you’re not talking to me directly but after our QuiltCon talk, I feel like you’re talking to me. I only have five shirts from my granddad and I can use yardage and so this!!! ❤❤❤❤❤ I have been scared to do this for a lot of reasons but this encourages me so much.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Megan, as I laid out those blocks and was talking on camera, you actually did come to mind.🥰 I'm so glad you felt it and are encouraged! You can do this!

[@garnettasmith1717]

Love the placemats!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Garnetta! ❤️

[@laurajones7417]

So fun to participate in the quilt with me! Love those blocks! Inspires me to make another one!

[@AppLady87]

This is exciting for my granddads shirts!!! I have only cut squares out and this would add a lot of value! I need to find a white shirt or two but that will be amazing. Thank you for sharing! ❤️

[@colleenfrancis5899]

I’ve never made a disappearing 4 patch. These turned out beautiful! What a fun Sew Along! This quilt is going to be awesome!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Colleen! I thought it was super fun! And I'm with you--I think the quilt top is going to be gorgeous!

[@ladyjane3660]

Wonderful! I had to show my husband that you featured one of the blocks I made and sent. I am now making a disappearing 4-patch starting with 4" squares, initially. It's a project I work on prn.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Jane, that's so fun that you recognized your block! And I bet a 4" block is super cute! ❤️

[@ladyflimflam]

Now I want a Holly Hobbie quilt. In the 70s when my parents rehabbed the old farmhouse I grew up in my mother made the mistake of asking me what kind of wallpaper I wanted in my room. Of course, I wanted Holly Hobbie. What I ended up was the color-riot puffy, loopy flowers wallpaper which my mother told me Holly Hobbie’s Flower Garden. It was several years before I realized she had lied to me. Dad painted everything else yellow, though, so I was mostly fine about this. 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Ok, I LOL'd about this. "Holly Hobbie's Flower Garden"---sounds exactly like something my creative mother would have said when I wanted an explanation. Gotta give your mom credit for the creativity!😉

[@kylierigby1953]

Hi Cathy. The things you are having me want to do!😊. Now try a disappearing 9 patch block! That was my first quilt block quilt, for a colleague's wedding gift, in a King! And I free motion quilted it also. Complete with beginners "eye lashes" in the stitching.🤣 My word, it was huge!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I cannot imaging making this as a King WITH free motion quilting?! My goodness---that is an undertaking!! 😱

[@kylierigby1953]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I have to think how long ago I made that now.?? Probably about 10 years ago.?? But it was a labour of love. Funny thing was, I miscalculated the fabric. Being a newbie to quilting. I somehow mixed up in my head the calculations for a 4 patch quilt, when I actually did a 9 patch. So I had enough blocks over to make a twin also!!🤣🤣🤣. That flimsy is yet to be finished. 😂😂 Stashed away in my sewing cupboard. 🙄. I used Ginny Byer fabrics in autumnal colours.

[@marshawallace7522]

Oh my...I love the blocks that you received❣️ NOW I want to make a disappearing 4 patch quilt... placemats...mug rugs, ALL the things. Thanks for the inspiration and the links, Cathy. So many of my nieces and grandchildren are very much into neutral colors and the grey placemats are beautiful and perfect.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Marsha! ❤️

[@silver_csmith]

Love the pink version….and loving the blue version blocks 🥰💙 Looking forward to seeing it come together! 👏🏻

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Charity! ❤️ That pink makes me just so happy! I'm eager to see how all the blues will come together!

[@pegpage8618]

Good morning - it was so fun to see your blue disappearing 4-patch blocks this morning and your pink quilt is gorgeous. I have a tote full of pink fabrics that I’m going to sew into this same pattern - thanks for the inspiration . 🤗 ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Peg! I have loved making these pink blocks---they just feel so happy and sweet!❤️

[@jennypare9564]

Thank you for a wonderful video as always. Made a table runner with my daughter using this same disappearing four patch. It was 2 wide by 4 long.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh I'm sure that was lovely! And you're welcome---I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@pammeinzer6757]

How lovely the different blues are. I'm just now getting close to starting the gingham quilt. It's waiting in line. I'll remember this one. Thank you for all you do. Have a great one.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Pam! You'll have to let me know how the gingham one goes!!

[@susyk6839]

I always forget how much I love the look of this block. Donna Jordan has a video on different cuts of this block which is a nice twist on this. I just bought the Magnolia pattern by Chelsi Stratton thanks to your recommendation as I love the look of that too (& your video on that one!). This a lovely stash burner ❤. Thank you for all you do & for sharing. You are appreciated!

[@stuckinstitches]

With these colors I love it!

[@pamelapollard6883]

A.W.E.S.O.M.E. does not describe my reaction to your video. I just discovered you and have subscribed as I do not want to miss any of your videos going forward. You definitely have a new fan.🤩

[@heavensmountains323]

I love this pattern so much & have used it for scrappy baby quilts. Now I am keen to cut into my acquired shirt fabric! Thank you! 🇨🇦

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You’re welcome! It really does just work beautifully for shirts!!

[@sherryfaires7931]

Love this pattern and it looks so nice put together! I made a larger size quilt several years ago using a soft floral layer cake and a white layer cake. I kept the 10 inch squares and made 2 inch cuts. It seems like the same proportion to me. I enjoyed making it very much! I never thought about rearranging the blocks or making the “reappearing four patch”. That’s a neat idea! Your shows are relaxing and enjoyable, Cathy. Thanks!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Sherry! I bet that D4P quilt in the soft floral layer cake was beautiful!

[@kathleenfcpl]

It is the perfect block for scraps! I've made many dis 4 patch quilts with diff size squares, cut widths, swaps and angles and fabric patterns. So many ways to experiment for very diff results.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Yes, Kathleen! It is so versatile and works beautifully for scraps---just endless possibilities! 🤩

[@bethliebman8169]

I'm in love with your placemats! I have placemats that need replacing and these would be so fun to make. You are an inspiration!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aw thanks!

[@bettygentry9672]

This is my FAVORITE block!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Really! Clearly I love it too, Betty! ❤️

[@diannenaworensky6698]

I get it. You like the "math-ee-ness" and the attention to detail. ❤❤❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Dianne--you get me. ❤️

[@diannplatt-roberts8692]

Love the disappearing blocks. If you haven't watched Brita Nelson, go. She has so many disappearing blocks that are awesome.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Diann. Someone else recommended her too---I'm gonna take it as a sign and check her out!!

[@cherylbrown4058]

Love your take on this simple but fun block!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Cheryl!❤️

[@deborahlunsford6983]

Wonderful timing as i have been thinking of using this block to make a few baby quilts. Thank you so much for you explicite idemonstations. I love the look of the blue and white!!!! Might have to make that one for myself. Love your sense of humeur😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Deborah!

[@TheQuiltingLunchLady]

Now one of the things you didn’t talk about is when you put the blocks together, you can vary the direction the smaller blocks make as well and then that becomes a whole other look too!! Of course, you only have 20-30 min per video, so maybe that is a discussion for another time!!!I like yourself, always have a lot to say about stuff!!! Thanks for another great video.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Christine--right?!? SO many variations (and so many words)--so little time!

[@debbietrapp7757]

Good morning Cathy, our blocks for quilt with me look so good! And I saw my block, so excited to be on u tube with you! 🥰

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I think so too, Debbie! And YAY---happy to have you with me too! 🥰

[@dedrasmitherman7983]

This is such a great use of shirts and scraps. I have so many blue shirts left from another quilt I made. The disappearing 4 patch might be the next one from those same shirts. TFS

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Dedra, right?! It just uses them up so beautifully and cohesively!❤️

[@annerankin1191]

Love this whole video! Love older style blocks made modern. Short intermission re: ice maker only added to this whole video! XOX

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Anne! ❤️ The ice maker story intermission: if that's not me, I don't know what is! 😂

[@annerankin1191]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts … why we love you!

[@gailparker8745]

Beautiful results. Love your descriptions of x

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Gail!

[@cassieplayford634]

I’ve been scared to try this block. You have inspired me to give it a try though. So pretty and I love the different looks you can get with it. Thanks for sharing! 💕

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Don't be scared! You can do it! A scant seam allowance will serve you well, as will starch! And YES, it is just so pretty to me.❤️

[@CarolynHillier]

Brita Nelson The Questioning Quilter is a great source for disappearing blocks

[@IndecisiveQuilter]

Your pink quilt is gorgeous! I hope you'll give us a close up soon.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much! It's needs a bit more work before it's ready for a close up---but it will happen eventually! ❤️

[@J.K.RiverisanoldLady]

You have convinced me that the disappearing 4 patch is beautiful and there are many variations. You have not convinced my skill set that I am ready to try something "fussy". I had not sewn for 25 years and finished my first quilt as a senior last weekend (nested rectangles). I have just started my second senior quilt. Today I learned of I Spy quilts. I am wondering what creative spin an I Spy quilt would take in your hands (I would love to see what you would do before I start one - just saying - no pressure).

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Lol, Janis! 😂 It definitely responds to precision (aka fussy) so maybe when you're ready! As for "I Spy" quilts, no more challenges for me for a little while---still have to get several WIP's off the docket before I take on another external challenge! 🤓 But thank you for the vote of confidence! 🥰

[@Denise11Schultz]

25:17 To me, the 3 out of 4 layout calls for a set on-point variation, to appear like a heart. Then I would experiment with the proportions of the disappearing 4 patch to make it even more heart like. And was it Judy Martin who designed the fabric line for ‘appli-piecing’? I’ll try to find that reference.

[@dianeroome972]

Beautiful work. You look like you were having fun playing and rearranging those pieces. I look forward to seeing the final quilt. I would not have considered this pattern before you shared it. The list of patterns I'd like to make exceeds my life expectancy! And it keeps growing. Will you raffle it off or keep it?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

We're going to do it as a giveaway for all the participants in the the collective quilt top---I'm so excited! I think there's gonna be a lucky girl in our midst! ❤️

[@nbc911]

Thank you

[@carey6160]

Beautiful pattern! Seeing your placemats next to the square blocks made me wonder how it would look to alternate between squares and rectangles.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

OooH! That would be INTERESTING, wouldn't it?!? (and thanks!❤️)

[@kathleenhaywood6142]

So good to see a new video...I've been watching old videos! Loved your take on Quilt Con. How's the graduation quilt for the Colorist going? Take care, K

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Kathleen! ❤️ The top is done, the backing fabric is chosen...now the colorist just has to choose a panto! Closer and closer! 😘

[@relicsong]

Cathy, I had an epiphany today when Seam ripped a shirt. The button holes and what to do with them? Well, in your thrifting videos, I saw you took fabric with you, but what if you used the button holes and put the fabric on a carabiner? You could keep it in the bin with the fabric as well. Just thought I would share.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Great idea!! Thank you so much the suggestion! 🤓👍🏻

[@jmurphy7192]

Absolutely smitten with the placements! Need to make mats for my furry kids that sleep in the bay window. Please share the dimensions.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you!❤️ It took me a couple of tries to get the dimensions where it suited me, so I'm glad someone else appreciates them too! The placemat dimensions I used are as follows: 9"X14" (largest block) 9"X 6" (attaches to largest block) 6"x14" (underneath large block) 6"X 6" (small square in the corner) I cut 1" on either side of the seam to get the "disappearing" pieces. 🤓👍🏻

[@barbaraanne2136]

This is the first time I've seen a disappearing "four patch". I've done a disappearing nine-patch with Kaffe Fasset fabrics using a 9inch size for the squares, all in reds and pinks. Your four patch is very " architectural" looking, which is great for shirts. I'm going to do it with my husbands favorite shirts. Now for the background fabric that ties them all together, what are your ideas? I have blues and greens already broken down.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It is very architectural looking, Barbara! And I think making this pattern with your husband's favorite shirts is a great idea! I'm partial to white (as you know) or gray (the universal tie-in) but it really depends on what other sorts of shirts you are incorporating!

[@bethsmith5208]

This is one of my favorite charm pack variations. I haven’t been able to find the “4 at a time” on Lea Louise’s blog or KZbin channel. Can you demo? Or provide more info for search? Thanks!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Apologies, I thought we had included it in the description box: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nonQmWiIlrqmbrssi=dmuDml1oPpmLzsQ5 The instructions for the 4-at-a-time 4 patch blocks start at 2:50 in the video. I used 10” blocks to start with for this project. And of course it just shortcuts the 4-patch part, not the “disappearing” part, which to my knowledge, can’t be short cut. 😘🤣

[@thecheshirecrafter4522]

Just checking, Cathy. When you speak about a pillow, is that what I'd call a cushion? To clarify, I have pillows on my bed on which to rest my head while sleeping, usually oblong and I'm currently resting on my sofa with cushions to support my arm and back, mostly square and smaller than my pillow. That 4 patch blue quilt is going to be very effective however you place the design and I love a design that makes you really look and appreciate the fabric. Your pink one's pretty cute too.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Yes, Maggie---a cushion. We also call it a "throw pillow!" Definitely not the sort of pillow that one sleeps on! 😉 And thank you! ❤️

[@kathleenswan4184]

I’m really interested in the variation you made. What size blocks did you start with for the placemat version?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Kathleen! The placemat dimensions I used are as follows: 9"X14" (largest block) 9"X 6" (attaches to largest block) 6"x14" (underneath large block) 6"X 6" (small square in the corner) I cut 1" on either side of the seam to get the "disappearing" pieces. 🤓👍🏻

[@karonwostenholme6533]

❤❤❤

[@theresascovill6825]

What do you do with the collars and the cuffs from your shirts?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I save them and sometimes give them away to viewers that use them in a variety of projects (like bags, koozies, hot pads, coasters, pin cushions, etc.) I keep the seams that I cut from the shirts and I'm currently knitting them into a rag rug! (Also lots of people have suggested using them to tie up garden plants or cut them up or use in dog beds.)

[@theresascovill6825]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts wow. Great ideas! Thanks.

[@carolinefortheloveofcrochet]

Awwwww Holly Hobby 💕💕💕 My thrifted men's shirts are $11.99 😳I can get yardage fabrics cheaper.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Right!? Love some retro Holly Hobbie! We can still get thrifted shirts affordably here in the south---and I've heard if you watch them, the ones that don't sell go to an outlet store or get marked down. But ultimately, whatever works best for you is the best!

[@tinamcclurg3286]

I wonder what she has to say. 😊

[@georgiadabinett6312]

Reappearing 4 patch, too funny...

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Right, Georgia?! I knew somebody would get it and laugh with me! 😂

[@juliaraley9563]

When I want to “try out a block,” I make a table runner for my younger sister. She has a huge farm-style table, I just connect 3 💙🩵

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I love that!! What a great idea! 🤓❤️