JEM65

I just love those Moda jelly rolls, honey buns, charm packs and layer cakes. Everytime I press seams on a project using the 1.5 or 2.5 inch strips - I am stretching the fabric. I had previously read that sewing from the opposite direction each time you add a strip would help keep the strips from stretching or waving. One other direction said to press the seams for the front of bag toward the top and then the seams for the back down. So far, at least, both items that I stretched were bags and I didn't ruin a quilt. Can anyone out there give me some sage pressing advice so I don't sacrifice any more of my beloved Moda? Thanks!

sueisallaboutquilts

Hi Jem- Oh, you and me both! I LOVE all the Moda you mentioned :D
I've been reading a lot on here lately about using starch to keep the fabric taut.
I'm watching with you............... :)

JudyG

Two things I would suggest. One is starching the fabric and the other is making sure you are pressing (up and down) not ironing (side to side). Both of those should help with stretching.

JEM65

Judy,
Are we starching the individual strips prior to sewing them together or are we starching the fabric after it is sewn together just when we press that seam? Jackie

vjengels

I've just started starching before I cut, then again after I sew, before I begin pressing the seams. it has made a huge difference in my quilting! why didn't I pay attention before?

hazeljane

I starch the heck out of them before I cut, and then press and starch after seaming. So they are a little stiff, but the little devils stay where they are supposed to, and I don't have bias problems with things like the friendship braid.

craftybear

starch, press (do not iron)

GrammaNan

Starch, starch and more starch! Also, don't use steam it makes stretching worse. Press and lift, don't press and slide. You will get it under control.

8gr8kids

Don't iron back and forth the way you might iron clothing or sheets. Just press the iron down on the patch, lift and put it down in the next place. Don't push it from one place to another.

amma

If I starch after sewing, I spray both sides, letting it dry. Dampened fabric can stretch easier than dry fabric :wink:
The stiffer the fabric, the less it can stretch :D:D:D