Your Best Piecing Tips for Accuracy
#21
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2015
Location: Upstate NY
Posts: 218
I was doing a string star block and was frustrated because I could not get the "Y" seams to be perfect. I then read on the internet to first sew the stem of the "Y". Then put a pin into the triangle where the "Y" seam and triangle patch come together and sew from the outside edge into the stem. Place your needle down where the two seams meet. Turn the fabric and sew a couple of stitches. DO NOT BACKSTITCH as some machines take a stitch before they start back. Repeat on the other side. I found that this method worked perfectly for me. Hope this is clear.
#22
Super Member
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Central NJ
Posts: 5,571
You've gotten great advice that I can't add to already on the Y seams. As to general accurate machine piecing, I suggest starching as well and slow down. Some really finicky blocks are better just done with paper piecing. General piecing, however, certainly aim for that perfect 'scant' 1/4" but more importantly (to me) is being consistent with your seam allowance.
As to starch, I use the liquid Sta-Flo brand and mix to a 50/50 solution with water. Let the starch (regardless of type you use) to soak into the fabric a bit before pressing/ironing. A - it makes the fabric stiffer and B - you don't get flakes.
Good luck with your challenges.
As to starch, I use the liquid Sta-Flo brand and mix to a 50/50 solution with water. Let the starch (regardless of type you use) to soak into the fabric a bit before pressing/ironing. A - it makes the fabric stiffer and B - you don't get flakes.
Good luck with your challenges.
#23
Super Member
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Central Wisconsin
Posts: 4,391
In the case of a y seam, you are in essence just turning the fabric at the sharp point and sewing down the other side. Stop with your needle down at the Y point, turn your work, align the edges together, sew down the other seam. It is kind of like turning a street corner.
I learned how to make tumbling blocks without "Y" seams. So much more fun.
#24
I really like Kaye Wood's tips and techniques. Here she demonstrates her method of doing a Y seam. I used this making a quilt that had tons of Y seams in it and it worked like a charm.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLkHfcuNzCA
She has lots of other tips on being accurate as well.
To get my points to be pointy in a pattern (like in triangles, stars etc) I put a pin through the point and then through the fabric I'm sewing it to. Most of the time it is 1/4" but not always as often there is just enough give in fabric to be a little off at that intersection. I make a mark on my fabric that I'm sewing the point to with a Frixon pen where the pin comes through and that is my seam guide when I go to sew my pieces together. Perfect points every time. Even if the seam on the backside isn't perfect who will notice.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLkHfcuNzCA
She has lots of other tips on being accurate as well.
To get my points to be pointy in a pattern (like in triangles, stars etc) I put a pin through the point and then through the fabric I'm sewing it to. Most of the time it is 1/4" but not always as often there is just enough give in fabric to be a little off at that intersection. I make a mark on my fabric that I'm sewing the point to with a Frixon pen where the pin comes through and that is my seam guide when I go to sew my pieces together. Perfect points every time. Even if the seam on the backside isn't perfect who will notice.
#30
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Michigan's Upper Peninsula
Posts: 857
Sally Collin's book is tops for precision piecing. Yes, I do use Magic Finish purchased at Walmart for less than one dollar. I like to put the finish on sections of fabric prior to cutting. A light touch with the iron to press, not iron, will make all the difference in the world. Good Luck!
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post