A whack with a hammer will flatten them as well, after they're sewn. Sometimes we just have to do what we have to do :)

I've made a Giant Dahlia which is 16 seams in the center sewn together. I ironed them open as much as possible, then I was able to sew across a flatter seam. It's tricky, but can be done.

8 seams won't be perfectly flat...just know that. There will be a hump, but the flatter you can get it, the better it is. If you have a picture of the block, or a link, that would help in some specific ideas for you.

Debbie in Austin

Yes, go here and then go to link again and that is how you should do your pin wheels and seams all going to one place. It's kind of fun...the little square make a cute design too. lol

Thanks! I'm going to try it the way you said. I've also been reading today and I read to take out about 3 stitches at the crossing seams. Haven't had time to try it yet, so good luck to both of us!