Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
DriversCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?PerformanceWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadDriversOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware match
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
ThatPainter is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn More
To make several four-patch units efficiently, sew two fabric strips together lengthwise, subcut the joined strip into pairs, then match and sew the pairs with their pressed seams nested. The method’s example uses 2-inch strips and 2-inch cuts; use dimensions that produce the unit size your project calls for.
What you need
- Two fabric strips, cut selvage to selvage. Their width depends on the four-patch size in your project.
- A sewing machine and thread.
- A ruler and cutting surface for aligning and subcutting the joined strips.
- An iron and ironing board for pressing.
- A quarter-inch presser foot with a guide is an optional aid for keeping the seam consistent. Jennifer, the tutorial’s presenter, says, “I like to use a quarter-inch foot with a guide, because that helps me keep my seam accurate.” Check that any foot you use is compatible with your machine.
How to sew a super-fast four-patch
- Sew the strips together. Place the two strips right sides together and sew along their length. Keep the seam straight and consistent; a quarter-inch foot with a guide can help.
- Press toward the darker fabric. Press the seam allowance to one side, toward the darker strip. This prepares the paired units to nest when you join them.
- Subcut into pairs. Return the joined strip to your cutting surface. Use a ruler to cut it into units whose dimension matches the planned four-patch size. In the tutorial’s example, the strips are 2 inches wide and the cuts are 2 inches; these are example measurements, not universal dimensions.
- Match two pairs right sides together. Align the raw edges and bring the pressed seam allowances together at the center. They should nest in opposite directions. Give the join a small tug to feel whether the seams have locked together before sewing.
- Sew across the center seam. Stitch the matched pair together. To make multiple blocks, chain-piece the pairs one after another without cutting the thread between units.
- Open and press. Open the sewn unit and press it to finish the four-patch.
Why the seams nest
Pressing both seam allowances toward the darker fabric makes the two allowances point in opposite directions when you place a pair right sides together and align the center seams. That interlocking arrangement helps hold the center match in place as you sew across it. Accurate, consistent strip seams and careful alignment still matter; nesting helps with the join but does not replace checking that the pieces are positioned correctly.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Choosing the right measurements
Use the finished unit size specified by your pattern to determine the strip width and subcut dimension. The 2-inch strips and 2-inch subcuts shown in the tutorial illustrate the sequence only. If you are working from a pattern, follow its cutting instructions rather than treating those example measurements as a general four-patch formula.
About the tutorial
This sequence comes from AllPeopleQuilt’s “Machine Minute: Super Fast Four-Patch Block”, published October 13, 2016 and credited to the American Patchwork & Quilting Editors. The episode’s introduction mentions Baby Lock and the Crescendo machine as its sponsor context; the tutorial does not say that this machine is needed for the technique.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 2
Best Value
Quilting Rulers Sewing Ruler,Acrylic Quilting Ruler Templates,Precision Cutting Tools for Patchwork Fabric,Sewing Supplies Purple(6"X17",3"X16",1.5"X12",1"X11")
- All in one 4 piece quilting ruler kit for quilting sewing patchwork fabric cutting measuring and pattern making.
- COMPLETProfessional clear permanent scales deliver precise cutting accurate patchwork and high standard craft projects.E SET:Quilting rulers, perfect for various quilting projects
- Shatter resistant durable acrylic ensures stable rotary cutting repeated use and long lasting accuracy.
- Perfect for quilt block making patchwork assembly fabric trimming DIY sewing and home decoration projects.
- Necessary quilting tools sewing supplies fabric cutting tools and accessories for hobbyists and professionals.
Rank #4
Creative Grids Stripology XL Slotted Quilting Ruler - CGRGE1XL – Made in USA, 17-3/4in x 22in, Non-Slip Grip Extra Large Acrylic Fabric Strip Cutting, Sewing, Crafting, Patchwork Ruler & Template
- Made in the USA with high quality acrylic and precision measurements ensuring accuracy for your quilting, sewing, patchwork, and crafting projects.
- Creative Grids exclusive non-slip grip allows you to easily slide the ruler over the fabric until positioned correctly. Then, when slight pressure is applied, the grip holds the ruler in place, eliminating slipping while you cut.
- Easy to read black and white markings, with cutting slots every 1/2in.
- Whole inch, half inch and quarter inch increments are marked. Additional markings for 1/4in and 3/4in cuts are also included.
- For quick reference, 1-1/2in cuts are highlighted with black stars and 2-1/2in cuts with black squares.
Rank #3
Quilting Rulers,Sewing Ruler,4 Piece Acrylic Square Quilting Templates,Clear Precision Ruler for Quilting Sewing,Tools Supplies Accessories Green(3.5"x3.5" 5"x5" 6.5"x6.5" 10.5"x10.5")
- Premium Thick Acrylic Construction Made of high grade transparent acrylic material, this quilting ruler set features a sturdy, wear resistant build that resists cracking, warping and bending for long term daily use. The clear design offers full visibility of fabric underneath, while smooth polished edges protect hands and fabric from snags or damage, ideal for frequent sewing and quilting projects.
- Precise Clear and Crisp Green Markings Equipped with sharp, fade resistant green measurement markings and clear grid lines, including 1/8 inch incremental scales, 90 degree right angle and 45 degree diagonal guides for ultra precise cutting and measuring. The high contrast green scale stands out clearly on both light and dark fabrics, eliminating reading errors and ensuring flawless piecing, trimming and block squaring every time.
- Complete Multi Size Square Set Includes 4 essential square quilting rulers in 3.5", 5", 6.5" and 10.5" sizes, covering all daily quilting, sewing and fabric crafting needs. From small patchwork details and trimming tiny blocks to large fabric cutting and full quilt block finishing, this all in one set meets the demands of beginners, hobbyists and professional quilters alike.
- User Friendly and Stable Design Lightweight yet durable structure ensures easy handling and maneuverability during crafting. The flat balanced design stays securely in place when cutting with rotary cutters, no unwanted shifting or sliding. Each ruler is easy to use for all users, with easy to read numbering and clear measurement guides for hassle free operation.
- Multi Purpose Sewing and Craft Tool This versatile acrylic quilting ruler set is perfect for quilting, sewing, fabric cutting, patchwork, scrapbooking and other DIY craft projects. Compatible with all standard rotary cutters and cutting mats, it is a must have essential tool for sewing rooms, craft studios and classrooms. A practical and thoughtful gift for sewing enthusiasts, quilters and craft lovers.
Rank #2
Fiskars 6" x 24" Sewing & Quilting Ruler with Gridlines, Clear/Black
- ARTS AND CRAFTS STAPLE: Fiskars Sewing Ruler (6 in. x 24 in.) is an ideal size for cutting fabric from the bolt
- PRECISION ART SUPPLIES: Clear ruler has incremental grid lines and two-toned markings for visibility on light and dark material. 30-, 45- and 60-degree line indicators make it easy to cut at perfect angles.
- LONG LASTING AND RELIABLE: Fiskars craft supplies and materials are built to last
- QUALITY TOOLS FOR ARTS AND CRAFTS: From scissors and cutting mats, rotary and paper cutters, to classroom essentials, scissors for kids, and quilting and scrapbooking supplies; Essential for holiday gift wrapping supplies
- INCLUDES: Fiskars Sewing Ruler; Limited Warranty
#1 Best Overall
Fiskars 3" x 18" Acrylic Sewing & Quilting Ruler with Gridlines, Clear
- SEWING AND QUILTING RULER: Large acrylic ruler for precise measurement, with highlighted seam allowances, easy-to-read measurement lines, and broken grid lines for fabric edge visibility
- PRECISION ART SUPPLIES: Ideal for measuring and making precise cuts through fabric; Bold 3" x 18" measuring grid makes measurements easy to read with speed and accuracy; Non-slip vinyl feet can be removed or added for secure cuts
- LONG LASTING AND RELIABLE: Thick acrylic material for lasting durability after sustained use; Fiskars craft supplies and materials are built to last
- QUALITY TOOLS FOR ARTS AND CRAFTS: From scissors and cutting mats, rotary and paper cutters, to classroom essentials, scissors for kids, and quilting and scrapbooking supplies, Fiskars crafting tools are designed to help you express yourself
- INCLUDES: 1 Fiskars 3" x 18" Acrylic Sewing Ruler; Full lifetime warranty
