Thread: Does setting your seams with an iron after sewing really make a difference?

I try hard to always do this. I swear it makes a difference. I strive to make every block as perfect as I can - so I do things like this hoping that it does make a difference.

Being a longarm quilter, I can always tell if the customer set the seam and then pressed or not. When the seam is set before pressing to one side, the "ditch" is always straighter and the fabrics lay much flatter. If you want a quilt top to look really nice after it has been quilted, always "set" the seams first. Otherwise, you may receive your quilt back with some minute pleats in the top.

Same here - I always set the seams now and starch prior to piecing.

I know exactly what you mean about the stretching, janetter.

Originally Posted by janetter

I never did before just started recently and it really does make all the difference, especially now that I have started using starch prior to piecing. It really keep the fabric from "stretching"and moving if that even makes sense hahaha

I try to do it. It really makes the block look nicer.

Well - I have had one of my questions answered - and I didn't even know I wanted to ask it! lol I have just started to do this to see if it mattered...seems it does! Thanks

I can only suggest you try it! I like it, but its easy enough to see for yourself!

Yes I set the seam and then press it open...of course noticing I didn't say the word 'iron'.

SET - put iron on fabric pieces as they were sewn (think about ironing a shirt - you'd smooth it out before really ironing it)

PRESS OPEN - open the seam and gently press the iron into the seam - don't iron it.

I think each seam looks pretty when pressed. and I think it makes a difference in my blocks.

I've noticed a difference when I do it.