I have done it both ways and I guess for me neither way was better or easier. Maybe try it this-a way and that-a way and see what works for you?

I don't get confused if I sew squares together and then sew rows together. I tried the other way and couldn't keep it straight. Easiest is best for me.
No right or wrong way to do anything and you may even come up with a newer and better way to do it. Good luck, it isn't hard unless you make it hard. Lots of good help on here.

In the past month and a half I've done two quilts like this - one I did by sewing large 4-patches, sewing into rows, then sewing 4P rows together (seams open) (see avatar). The other I did by sewing each individual row of squares, then sewing all rows together (seams to one side or the other). These were my first two quilts, ever.

I personally preferred the 4-patches and open seams. Some do not. It all comes down to your preference...so do this one one way, and next time you try it, try it a different way and see what works for you!

Well, I've started with sewing 4 charms together, one w/9 together... and I can see that I have to make a decision and not get myself all confused! To add to it, I have some panel pieces that I wanted to incorporate - that are 4 squares in size. I had better get this all laid out before I make a real mess! I will probably continue doing 4 squares - then make a row with that - like you said deema.

have fun too. good luck. let us see when done.