I was having a problem with my blocks coming out too small. One reason was that my 1/4" foot was flared out at the end and the seams were too wide by about 1/32 of an inch. So I started stitching seams that were about 1/32 of an inch smaller than an actual 1/4" and that seemed to do the trick. I'm new so just wondering if you all find that most patterns require a seam of just under an actual 1/4". Thanks!

most pieces loose a bit when the seam allowance is ironed to one side, if you have more than a fine thread it takes up even more room, so yes, most patterns need a scant 1/4" but don't always say that!

Nope. I use a 1/4" foot and also have a blue tape marking it so I am always on the button. If the pattern says scant 1/4" I do 1/4" and it still comes out. LOL. That little "hit and miss" on the 1/4" can make a difference on a whole block. Been there done that.:)

I'm glad you figured out what the problem was. Especially being new, you were very clever to realize what was going on. I did a post a while back on accurate 1/4" seams that may be useful to you:

http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-89997-1.htm

And I love your Pysanky - I used to do that many years ago!

Many patterns are made for a scant 1/4", a lot of us have found this to be true when using Quilters Cache's patterns LOL

It isn't a bad idea to make a sample block, ( you can use scraps :wink: ) to check the size of the finished block to see if a true 1/4" will work. The sample blocks will eventually make a great sampler quilt :D:D:D

If you always make your sample block out of similar fabrics, i.e. Christmas, or Patriotic, or Blue & White, you will have a really nice sampler quilt when you have enough blocks!

Thank you so much and your tutorial helped a lot. Hard to believe such small amounts make such a difference but they absolutely do.

Try this
http://quiltville.blogspot.com/2005/...rter-inch.html

This link is GREAT!! Thanks so much.

A true 1/4 inch has never worked for me, blocks always comes out to small.
Some smaller than others.
My machine even has a 1/4 inch setting but it dosnt work out either. Just have to move the needle a couple of notchs to the right.
If it is a pattern for a whole quilt it dosnt matter about the size. Just adjust the sashing etc to fit.
But if it is a block that is used with others who make blocks for a quilt, you must be exact.