Quiltbeagle

I find it easier to match seams with them pressed to one side, not to mention that if you don't you may get 'ghosts' under the lighter fabric. I'll still do it, even though it's no longer necessary.

GGJudy

I'm with you on this one, especially when you are matching up a lot of small squares. There are times I sew the seams open if the matching isn't as intense and the fabric is a light color. It also makes sense to me to sew seams to one side if you are going to SID.

SunlitenSmiles

ditto.....an open seam is easy to match and bright colors stay on 'their' side.....thread width less of an issue.....not pressing seam is not an option IMHO

karenpatrick

I always press to the dark unless the pattern tells me otherwise. Right now I'm working on A "Gemini" pattern and the instructions say to press seams open.

Geri B

I think that 1/8"seam is recommended for mini quilts, and also recommended to be pressed open. That makes sense to reduce bulk.
On 1/4" seams I will automatically press to one side.....just because I have done that for these many years. However, lately, I have opened some seams when working a block that seemed to be too bulky with side seams.
There was a time the side seam helped to keep the batt from bearding, but with today's better methods that is probably not necessary.......
As most everything else, we each do what we find works best for us individually.

MadP

I do both. Depends on the circumstances.

jitkaau

I use what ever method makes my block sit nicely, with no excessive bulkiness etc. No one sees the back of the sandwich top but it needs to present nicely.

lynnsim

This is an interesting concept! I have such a hard time matching seams that I think I'll try the open seam the next time I do blocks.

patdesign

I totally agree. I also think the seams handle better and I have done it both ways. I did watch a recent tute on a pineapple that pressed the seams open, and I think I can understand why.

luci4

I have and will continue to use both methods in my quilts. Since either way is correct I guess it depends on personal preference.