Two Creative Ways to Make a Disappearing Four Patch Quilt Block
Hey there, quilting friends!
I'm Tiffany from Straight Stitching, and I'm back with another fun and beginner-friendly tutorial that’s going to shake up your patchwork game — it’s all about the Disappearing Four Patch block!
In today’s YouTube video, I’m showing you TWO super fun and easy ways to create this versatile block using just four simple 5” x 5” squares. But don’t worry — if you have a different size square on hand, you can totally make it work. That’s the beauty of this block — it’s all about being creative with what you have!
🎥 Watch the full tutorial here!
🧵 What You'll Learn in This Tutorial:
The basics of creating a traditional Disappearing Four Patch block
Two different methods to cut and reassemble your block for a fresh twist
Helpful tips to keep your seams aligned, your points crisp, and your blocks flat
Whether you're just starting out or you've been quilting for years, these blocks are such a fun way to play with color, pattern, and layout — and they’re great for using up your fabric stash!
✨ Why You'll Love This Block
Disappearing Four Patches are seriously addictive — once you make one, you'll want to keep experimenting with different fabric combos and layouts. Use them in quilts, table runners, or even pillows. The possibilities really are endless!
🧷 Let’s Quilt Together!
Grab your favorite fabric squares and join me for this creative session! I’d love to see what you make — be sure to tag me on Instagram or Facebook and use the hashtag #StraightStitching so I can cheer you on!
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Thanks for stitching with me — and as always,
Happy Quilting!
💛 Tiffany Bynum
Straight Stitching
Create the Straight Stitching Sew Sampler Quilt: A Beginner-Friendly Video Series
Hey quilty friend! I’m Tiffany from Straight Stitching, and I’m thrilled to introduce you to my Straight Stitching Sew Sampler Quilt — a fun, beginner-friendly quilt made entirely with half-square triangles and 10 unique quilt blocks designed to help you build confidence at your sewing machine.
If you’re new to quilting, or just love a good scrap-busting project, this quilt is for you. I’ve created a 7-part video series on YouTube that walks you through the entire process of making this sampler quilt — block by block. From material selection to sewing perfect seams, you’ll learn everything you need to make a quilt you’ll be proud to show off.
✨ Here's What You Can Expect in the Series:
🧵 Video 1: Introducing the Straight Stitching Sew Sampler Quilt
In the kickoff episode, I introduce the sampler quilt, go over the materials you’ll need, and teach you how to create half-square triangles — a foundational quilting skill. I’ll also share a few fabric selection tips to get you started with confidence!
🧵 Video 2: How to Make Blocks 2 & 3
Let’s keep the momentum going! In this video, I guide you through sewing Blocks 2 and 3. These beginner-friendly blocks use simple piecing techniques and, of course, more half-square triangles. It’s a great chance to practice accuracy and chain piecing.
🧵 Video 3: How to Sew Quilt Blocks 4–6
We’re making big progress! Learn how to sew Blocks 4, 5, and 6. I’ll break down the steps and show how small pieces can come together to form stunning, cohesive designs. This is a great video to watch if you're starting to feel confident and want to build momentum.
🧵 Video 4: Block #7 – The Star Puzzle Quilt Block
Block 7 is one of my favorites — the Star Puzzle! In this video, I’ll show you how to piece this block together using half-square triangles and give you tips for keeping your points nice and sharp. We’ll also dive into chain piecing to speed things up.
🧵 Video 5: How to Make Block #8
This block focuses on layout and precision. I’ll walk you through how to assemble your pieces and give you helpful tips on using a quarter-inch seam allowance — a key skill for every quilter.
🧵 Video 6: Block #9 – Mosaic 18
Block 9 brings a beautiful mosaic-inspired look to the sampler. I’ll show you how to cut, sew, and assemble it — all using half-square triangles! It’s a block that looks complex but is totally achievable, even if you're just starting out.
🧵 Video 7: Block #10 – The Yankee Puzzle
We’ve made it to the final block! The Yankee Puzzle is a traditional design that ties everything together. I’ll walk you through each step to make sure your points line up beautifully and you're all set to assemble your quilt top.
💬 Let's Sew Together!
Whether you’re making your very first quilt or just looking for a fresh and fun sampler project, this series was made with you in mind. Grab your scraps, fire up your sewing machine, and let’s get stitching!
👉 Subscribe to my channel Straight Stitching on YouTube so you never miss a video.
👉 Drop a comment on any video to share your progress or ask questions — I love connecting with fellow quilters!
And if you want to grab the pattern or join my email list for updates and exclusive content, stay tuned — I’ve got more quilting goodness coming your way soon 💛
Happy quilting!
— Tiffany
Straight Stitching
Quilt Sizes Guide: Understanding the Range of Standard Quilt Dimensions
When planning a new quilt project, one of the most common questions is: What size should I make it? The answer depends on your purpose—and even then, there’s wiggle room! That’s why I created this modern visual guide to quilt sizes to help you compare standard ranges from baby to king.
💡 Reminder: There are no hard and fast rules in quilting. These dimensions are flexible, and you should always feel free to adjust them for your needs!
🧵 Quilt Sizes at a Glance
Here’s a quick reference guide you can pin or save:
🍼 Baby Quilt
Size Range: 30" to 45" wide × 30" to 45" long
Perfect for tummy time, stroller snuggles, or nursery décor. These are often square and easy to manage.
🛏️ Crib Quilt
Size Range: 28" to 36" wide × 48" to 52" long
Designed to fit inside standard cribs, these are slightly longer than baby quilts and super functional.
🛋️ Lap Quilt
Size Range: 40" to 60" wide × 40" to 60" long
Lap quilts are great for tossing over a chair or keeping cozy while watching TV. Think small and square.
🧶 Throw Quilt
Size Range: 52" to 75" wide × 52" to 75" long
A larger cozy companion, perfect for lounging on the couch or draping at the foot of a bed.
🛏️ Twin Quilt
Size Range: 64" to 72" wide × 86" to 90" long
Ideal for twin beds with some extra drape. Great for dorm rooms or guest beds!
🛏️ Full Quilt
Size Range: 70" to 88" wide × 108" long
Also known as a double quilt, this size fits a full bed with a nice drop on the sides.
👑 Queen Quilt
Size Range: 86" to 90" wide × 108" long
A classic choice for many quilters. This size offers room to play with big blocks or bold layouts.
👑 King Quilt
Size Range: 106" to 110" wide × 108" long
Big, bold, and beautiful! King-size quilts can be challenging but so worth it when finished.
🧵 Final Thoughts
Quilt sizing is flexible—think of these as suggestions, not rules. Adjust the width, length, or shape to match your unique vision. Whether you're making a cozy throw or a statement king-size quilt, the best size is the one that fits your purpose (and your heart 💖).
Happy quilting!
— Tiffany @ Straight Stitching
How to Make Your First Quilt – A Free 5-Part Video Series for Beginners
Welcome to Straight Stitching: How to Make Your First Quilt – A Free 5-Part Video Series for Beginners
Hey there, friend! I'm Tiffany from Straight Stitching, and I’m so excited to welcome you into the world of quilting.
If you’ve ever thought, “I’d love to make a quilt, but I have no idea where to start,” this series is just for you. I created a step-by-step, beginner-friendly video series that walks you through the entire quilting process — and it’s completely free on YouTube!
This series is perfect for first-time quilters or anyone who wants a refresher on the basics. All you need is some fabric, a little time, and a willingness to try something new. Let’s break it down:
🧵 Video 1: Piecing Your Quilt Top
Learn how to choose fabrics, lay out your blocks, and sew your quilt top together with simple, beginner-friendly techniques.
🧷 Video 2: Basting Your Quilt
I’ll show you how to layer your quilt top with batting and backing, and how to baste it all together to get ready for quilting.
✨ Video 3: Quilting Techniques
We’ll explore some easy quilting options that are perfect for your first quilt, whether you're quilting by machine or hand.
✂️ Video 4: Trimming & Preparing the Binding
Your quilt is almost done! Let’s trim it up and get the binding ready so it looks clean and professional.
🧵 Video 5: Attaching the Binding
In our final step, I’ll walk you through how to attach your binding — the finishing touch that brings it all together.
Ready to Start Your Quilting Journey?
If you want more helpful tips, quilt patterns, and beginner tutorials — don’t forget to subscribe to my channel and join my email list for exclusive content and freebies just for quilters like you!
Thanks for being here — and remember, progress over perfection. You’ve got this 💛
Happy quilting,
Tiffany
Straight Stitching
Transform your pinwheels into something new!
Today, I’m sharing a fun Disappearing Pinwheel technique that turns one block into TWO stunning new designs. 🪄✂️
Start by making a pinwheel block.
You will need 2 sets of blocks of the same size to make 4 half square triangles.
Stack each set of blocks with the right sides facing each other.
Draw a diagonal line from corner to corner.
Stitch a line ¼”from both sides of the drawn line.
Cut along the drawn line to create 4 half square triangles.
Arrange the 4 half square triangles into a pinwheel. Stitch together using ¼” seam allowance.
Cut the pinwheel into 9 equal blocks
Rearrange the 9 blocks to form a new design
Sew blocks using ¼” seam allowance
This is such a magical way to give your quilts a modern twist. Let me know which design you love more in the comments! 💬 And don’t forget to tag me @StraightStitching if you try it—I can’t wait to see your creations.
How to Sew a Little Log Cabin Quilt Block | Beginner-Friendly Tutorial
Hi there, quilting enthusiasts! Tiffany from Straight Stitching here. If you're new to quilting or just looking for a quick and easy project, you're in the right place. Today, I'm sharing a tutorial for a classic and beginner-friendly quilt block: the Little Log Cabin.
This block is not only fun to make but also incredibly versatile. Let’s dive in and piece this beautiful block together!
Sample Layouts
Materials You’ll Need:
Background Fabric: Choose a solid or subtle print for contrast.
Print Fabrics: A combination of four prints or solid colors, or a mix of both. This is a great way to use up jelly roll strips or scraps from your stash.
Cutting Measurements:
2 1/2" squares for the inner pieces.
2 1/2" x 4 1/2" rectangles for the middle ring.
2 1/2" x 6 1/2" rectangles for the outer ring.
Tools:
Rotary cutter and cutting mat.
Sewing machine with a 1/4" foot.
Iron and ironing board.
Quilting ruler.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pieces
Start by cutting all your fabric pieces according to the measurements above. Before you begin cutting, take a moment to double-check each measurement to avoid errors and ensure you have the correct dimensions. Lay out your pieces on a flat surface or design board to visualize the block. This will help you keep track of the order as you sew.
Step 2: Sew the Inner Squares
Begin with the 2 1/2" square background piece and a 2 1/2" print square. Place them right sides together and sew using a 1/4" seam allowance. Repeat this process to make two identical units. Chain piecing works wonderfully here to save time and thread. For those unfamiliar, chain piecing involves sewing pieces together in a continuous sequence without breaking the thread between each pair, making the process faster and more efficient.
Step 3: Press the Seams
Finger press the seams open first, then use an iron to flatten them. Pressing seams open helps create a polished and professional-looking block by reducing bulk at intersections, which allows for smoother quilting and a flatter overall finish.
Step 4: Add the Middle Ring
Take the 2 1/2" x 4 1/2" rectangles and sew them to the sides of your inner square units. Ensure the seams are aligned neatly before stitching. Once again, finger press and iron the seams open.
Step 5: Build the Outer Ring
Continue to add the larger 2 1/2" x 6 1/2" rectangles around your block. This will form the outer ring, completing the “log cabin” look. Follow the same process of sewing, pressing, and ironing, ensuring accuracy in seam alignment for the best results.
Step 6: Assemble the Mini Blocks
The Little Log Cabin block consists of four mini log cabin blocks. Arrange them as shown in the tutorial, ensuring the colors and patterns are balanced. Sew the mini blocks together, aligning the seams for a seamless finish.
Pro Tips for Success
Chain Piecing: This technique is a game changer. Sew multiple blocks in a continuous chain to save time and avoid stopping and restarting your machine. To prevent tangling or misalignment, ensure your pieces are neatly aligned and stacked before feeding them into the machine.
Press Seams Open: While it’s not mandatory, pressing seams open creates flatter blocks, making assembly easier.
Use Jelly Rolls: If you’re short on time, pre-cut jelly roll strips are perfect for this block.
Why You’ll Love This Block
The Little Log Cabin block is perfect for beginners, but it also offers enough versatility to keep seasoned quilters engaged. Whether you use bold prints, subtle solids, or a mix of both, the results are always stunning. Plus, this block is a fantastic way to use up those leftover fabric scraps you’ve been saving.
Give this block a try, and don’t forget to share your creations on Instagram using the hashtag #StraightStitchingQuilts. I’d love to see your versions of the Little Log Cabin quilt block!
Happy quilting,
Tiffany
Quilting Ideas for Beginners: Easy Cross Weave Quilt Block Tutorial
Welcome to Straight Stitching, where I share my passion for quilting! Today, I’m excited to bring you a simple yet stunning quilt block tutorial—the Cross Weave Block. This block is perfect for beginners and an excellent way to use your fabric scraps or jelly roll strips. Let’s dive in!
What is the Cross Weave Quilt Block?
The Cross Weave Block is essentially a combination of four mini log cabin blocks. When pieced together, they create a beautiful cross-weave effect that adds dimension and texture to your quilt.
Materials Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to create one Cross Weave Block:
Background Pieces: Four white fabric squares measuring 4 1/2 inches each.
Four Colors for the Cross Weave Effect:
(1) piece measuring 6 1/2 inches by 2 1/2 inches per color.
(1) piece measuring 4 1/2 inches by 2 1/2 inches per color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Layout Your Pieces
Start by laying out your pieces to decide the color placement. This step ensures the colors are arranged to achieve the desired cross-weave pattern.
2. Sew the Short Pieces
Take the 4 1/2-inch by 2 1/2-inch colored strips and sew one to the side of each background square using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Use chain piecing to speed up the process, which allows you to sew multiple pieces without cutting the thread between blocks.
3. Press the Seams
Press the seams open for a flat finish. Start with a finger press, then use a dry iron to avoid distorting the fabric shape.
4. Attach the Longer Pieces
Sew the 6 1/2-inch by 2 1/2-inch strips to the adjacent sides of your blocks. Again, use a 1/4-inch seam allowance and chain piecing for efficiency. Once done, press the seams open.
5. Assemble the Mini Log Cabin Blocks
After attaching the short and long pieces to each background square, you will have four mini log cabin blocks. Press the seams to ensure they lie flat.
6. Arrange and Sew the Cross Weave Block
Lay out the mini log cabin blocks to form the cross-weave pattern. Sew the blocks in two pairs (top and bottom rows). Then, sew the two rows together. Your completed block should measure 12 inches squared.
Tips for Success
Use Scraps or Jelly Roll Strips: This block is ideal for using up leftover fabric. Fat quarters or yardage also work well.
Precision Matters: Align edges carefully to maintain a neat appearance.
Pressing Techniques: Press seams on both sides to achieve a flat and polished look.
Why You'll Love the Cross Weave Block
The Cross Weave Block is versatile, beginner-friendly, and a fantastic way to experiment with colors. Whether you’re making a small throw or a large quilt, this block will add charm and visual interest to your project.
Have fun quilting, and don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media by tagging @StraightStitching. Happy stitching!