4-Patch-Posie Schoolhouse 04/18/26 by Dianne Kane

Dianne Kane has agreed to teach a “4-Patch Posie” Schoolhouse Class for us on April 18th, 2026.

Are you ready for some surprises? Like a simplified form of stack-n-whack, this technique will create surprising new blocks, each with its own special design. It’s as satisfying and addictive as eating a box of chocolates, because every block you make will automatically create four design options and you’ll get to choose your favorite! Because you’ll be making 4-patches, the process will go pretty quickly, and it’s likely that you’ll get many of the blocks made during our sewing time. We’ll also talk about how you can set and lay out the blocks: for example, with or without sashing or borders; on-point; with mitered strips on 2 sides; courthouse steps; and more. This is a technique that you’ll want to use again and again – just because each block is a pleasant surprise!

Supplies

Matt (bring the largest one you can)
Rotary cutter (consider a new blade)
Ruler (at least 4 x 12″ up to 8½ x 24″)
Sewing machine (only need straight stitch)
Thread for piecing
Scissors, seam ripper
Pencil & paper for taking notes
Flat head pins

Optional

(Bring along if you have them but no need to purchase)
Pattern: 4-Patch Stacked Posies by H.D. Designs
A folding mirror
Design wall
Digital camera
Square rulers (any and all sizes 3″ to 12½”)
extension cord

Fabrics

This technique works best with a “busy” fabric. A piece with lots of variations in color will create a variety of unique blocks. Retro, floral, geometric, and Asian are all good choices. (Batiks are not a good choice for the focus fabric.) Because there are so many options in the cutting and layout of the fabrics, it’s hard to provide specific fabric requirements.

You will be sent a supply list with more detail about this, but be aware that you must have at least 4 repeats of the design in the focus fabric. (Look along the selvedge edge to help you find the repeats.) You might consider buying extra yardage for borders or get at least one more repeat to use on the backing. It’s fun to use a piece of the “mother” fabric somewhere so others will know what you actually started with! If you want a large quilt and the repeat is only 12″ you might consider getting 8 repeats.

You may want to purchase coordinating fabrics for sashings or borders. Or, you may want to wait until you’ve made some blocks and decided how you will lay out the design.

If you have questions, please contact Dianne.