How to Make a Disappearing Four Patch Quilt Block

Try this fun twist on a traditional four patch quilt block. The disappearing four patch is an easy quilt block that looks more complicated than it actually is!

Two disappearing four patch quilt blocks

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A traditional four patch block is a simple quilt block and a common staple for many quilters due to its simplicity and versatility. It is also the base of the disappearing four patch block. You can make a four patch “disappear” by making different cuts to the original block and rearranging the resulting pieces. Where you make the cuts and how you arrange the pieces will determine the different block designs you’ll end up with.

I’ll show you my favorite way to make these, but there are really so many options! This method will give you what looks like a more complex quilt block that is perfect for new quilters because it’s not hard to make! You’ll get faster and more comfortable with the process with each one you assemble. Once you’re confident, you can play around with where you make the cuts to see how it changes the whole look of your new block!

Disappearing four-patch quilt block tutorial

For the first step, we’re going to make a regular four patch block.

Begin with 4 equal-sized squares of fabric. These are great blocks for using up a charm pack or even a layer cake if you’re looking for a larger block, but you can use any size square that suits your needs. I cut out 5-inch squares for mine.

You’ll notice that I used one solid color and two separate prints, but you should feel free to mix it up! You can stick with two different fabrics or choose a different one for every square! This pattern looks great with both solids and prints. Your fabric choices will go a long way to change the look of your quilt.

Four squares of fabric. Two white and two pink with fish.

With right sides together, sew the top 2 squares and bottom two squares together using a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Then press the seams to the darker fabric on the back side.

Four squares of fabric sewn into two strips with seams pressed to the dark side

Sew the top row to the bottom row together to form one larger square. Press the resulting seam to one side.

Now you have a traditional four patch block!

A traditional four patch quilt block in pink and white

If you have a rotating cutting mat it’ll make this next step easy. If you don’t, it can still be done without it. You can walk around your cutting table, or keep it in place to cut it. Whichever way you prefer to do it, try not to move your block at all during this step.

Use your cutting ruler to measure 1″ away from the right side of the center seam line and make a cut with a rotary cutter. Rotate the block a quarter turn and make a second cut just like the first cut you made. Repeat this step twice more rotating a quarter turn each time.

A pink and white quilt block on a rotating cutting mat with a cutting ruler on top of it. Cut lines are indicated in black.

Rotate the small middle block a half-turn. Keep the corner squares in place and switch pieces A with C and B with D as shown in the pictures below.

A traditional four patch quilt block cut into a disappearing four patch with pieces correctly arranged.

Sew the individual pieces together to create top, middle, and bottom strip sets. Press the new seams of the top strip and bottom strip to the right side and the new seams of the center row to the left.

Three strip sets with arrows indicating which way to press the seams

Sew the strip sets together and press the seams to one side. Your finished block will look something like this.

a completed disappearing four patch quilt block in a pink and white color scheme

At this point, you can trim it to the correct size and square up the block if you need to.

When you finish your new blocks, you can arrange them in different ways on your design wall to create totally different looks! It’s the perfect quilt block for a table runner, baby quilt pattern, or even larger quilts.

Below is a quilt top I made. This is probably my favorite way to arrange the disappearing four patch blocks when using only two solid fabrics. I love the combination of the large and small checks.