How to measure 1/4" seam???
07-24-2015, 02:57 PM
#12
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If you are piecing something that is supposed to end up with points, you probably want to sew a scant 1/4", to accommodate the width of your thread after pressing (i.e., the width of the thread would be included in the 1/4" measurement). Otherwise, it probably doesn't matter as long as you're consistent throughout the whole quilt.
07-24-2015, 02:57 PM
#13
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Ok, got it!!! I did the test sample exactly as suggested ( the 3 - 2.5" pieces). I found the sweet spot on my machine. Then I sewed my actual fabric and it came out great. Thanks for all the advice. You guys are the best!
07-24-2015, 03:04 PM
#15
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Originally Posted by KenmoreGal2
Do I measure including the thread? Or do I measure from the side of the thread to the edge of the fabric?
I'm thinking based on how my blocks are coming out...it's the former.
I'm thinking based on how my blocks are coming out...it's the former.
07-24-2015, 03:15 PM
#16
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Originally Posted by KenmoreGal2
Ok, got it!!! I did the test sample exactly as suggested ( the 3 - 2.5" pieces). I found the sweet spot on my machine. Then I sewed my actual fabric and it came out great. Thanks for all the advice. You guys are the best!
There are things besides the seam allowances that affect the size of the finished unit.
07-24-2015, 03:28 PM
#17
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Originally Posted by Latrinka
I'm sew glad I'm not the only one! LOL! I finally just call it close enough for me, I don't do any of those really intricate patterns anyway, in fact, don't ever use a pattern, just see something, and do it MY way. Not being sarcastic, as some will take it, but they say really to sew 3 strips (2 and 1/2) wide together, and it should measure 6 and 1/2.
tim in san jose
07-24-2015, 04:40 PM
#18
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Originally Posted by KenmoreGal2
Ok, got it!!! I did the test sample exactly as suggested ( the 3 - 2.5" pieces). I found the sweet spot on my machine. Then I sewed my actual fabric and it came out great. Thanks for all the advice. You guys are the best!
07-24-2015, 04:53 PM
#19
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Yes Princess, I will definitely test every time now. I've written down the specific measurements that I used for this test and I'll keep them in my quilting notebook for future reference.
07-25-2015, 08:56 AM
#20
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Originally Posted by dunster
The size of the finished piece is what matters, not necessarily the size of the seam allowance. It's just that if you cut accurately and sew with a scant 1/4", the finished piece SHOULD be the right size. Instead of trying to measure the seam, try sewing together 3 fairly short strips that are 2.5" wide. Now measure. The center strip should measure 2" (because 1/4" was taken away on each side) and the outer two pieces should each measure 2.25", for a total of 6.5". If the measurement is less, try sewing with a slightly smaller seam allowance; if more, then increase your seam allowance. If you change your thread you may have to repeat this process to find your perfect spot for sewing.
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