I need some help on how to join multiple seams together. I have made a number of blocks and at each corner on each block there are two seams. When I attempt to sew four blocks together there are eight seams coming together which makes quite a lump. Besides ironing the seams open are there any other tricks you ladies know of that would help my blocks lay down flatter? I would appreciate any help you could give me as I am a new quilter and didn't realize these kind of blocks would be difficult until after I made them. Thanks so much. I have learned so much from this board!

Well, I am fairly new as well, but I think I would use a sashing between the blocks. I mean like a 2.5 inch piece of material to set the blocks apart.

I'm fairly new, too. What I've tended to do is: press seams open, or else press each seam to one side so at the meeting point, seam allowances will nest around in a sort of "spiral"... clear as mud?...

Also when pressing, I press into the meeting point with the very tip of my iron, to help flatten things out.

Good luck, have fun and welcome from England! :D

A hard pressing surface really helps get those intersections mashed down good.

Thanks, I hadn't thought of that.

Thanks, I think I get the picture and will try it.

I am having the same problem only I am doing pinwheels. I have been told to cut some threads at the junction point and twist to make a sort of square. I am still trying to do this.I understand the concept and can do it with just one seam but where a number of seams meet I find I am having a hard time. I will let you know if I come up with a solution.

to Beebee:
When I have to flatten an intersection with several seams in it, I moisten my finger tip, press down on the intersection and twist and turn the BLOCK around under my finger, holding my finger steady on the seams, instead of twisting my finger.

I press seams open, and use some spray starch.

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!