Im using this one -
http://www.quilterscache.com/S/SignatureChainBlock.html

I cut out the pieces according to the directions, but none of the seams match up when I go to sew the rows together. I'm used to being a hair off, but these things are up to 1/8 inch off.

what am I doing wrong?

::going to cut the fabric again::

Did you use the same ruler when you cut all your pieces? When I first started quilting, I learned that there are slight variations from one ruler to another and if you are switching back and forth, it could cause your pieces to be off.

Are you using a scant 1/4" or a full 1/4" seam? Are your seam allowances consistent throughout?

Measure after every seam you sew to make sure your block is coming out correctly. You may be able to find out where you are "off". Make adjustments as you go. You may need to tweak your seam allowance.

Are you cutting the center rectangle 4 1/2" X 8 1/2"?
I noticed it omitted that piece altogether in the cutting directions.

Also, after you sew two seams together, press and then measure that unit. Sometimes if you don't press the seams open correctly your pieced unit will shrink in size.

I think that I used the full 1/4 inch seam. I have a setting on my sewing machine where I can put the needle all the way to the left. I will try that again & see if that gives me the scant 1/4 seam.

If that doesn't work, I'm hand-sewing the pieces. Much less aggravation....

thank you for the advice. I shall conquer this pattern challenge.

It is sometimes nothing you did!! (Some wise quilter told me this once and I so thank her often in my thoughts!!)If your cutting board isn't all torn up, and your rotary cutter is cutting thru fabric w/one swipe (or it is dull) and you know that your ruler isn't sliding...it could be NOT you!! But, the pattern!! It does happen and I did have that happen to me once and no matter what I did...it didn't come out exact in measurements as said in pattern...:)One other blessing for me was my 1/4" presser foot that has a guide...! Such a blessing that little creature is to me!!:)Do keep us posted on your findings...and, just don't give up...:)Skeat

That is so frustrating when it happens. Most of the time it's me but there have been one or two times it was the pattern.

I conquered the pattern! I had to fiddle with my sewing machine so I could figure out where the 1/4 inch seam really was so I could do the scant 1/4 inch seam. Almost every seam matched up.

Also found out that I have a sewing machine foot that lets me do the 1/4 inch seam thing much more easily. (had the machine for 10+ years, who knew?)

How awesome is that?!! And, you will wonder what you ever did w/o it too:)LOL I love mine!! Enjoy! Skeat

Awesome!!! I love a happy ending :D :D :D