I have been sewing quilts for over thirty plus years . I have almost always pressed my seams open. I have never had any issues with wear and tear. I like the look of a flat seam. It really helps to make some seams disappear, especially after its been quilted. My Long Arm person loves to do my quilts as there are no bumps the machine moves easliy over the entire quilt. I like it better when free motion for the same reason.