Originally Posted by RST
Leslie -- While I was taught to press seams closed always, I have, over the years, sometimes chosen to press open -- if it works better. I have no dog in that fight. I'm also very wishy-washy about always prewashing (tongue twister, anyone?)
But when I buy a pattern (which is very rare) or a book or mag, I really, really do expect the author to give very clear, concise, efficient directions and yardage requirements. A big part of why I don't buy patterns and books is that this expectation is not always met. It's also why I won't do mystery quilts and am leery about quilt-alongs (unless they give full info from the get go). However, there is obviously a market for them, and people who like working that way, so good for them. And I hope that in their travels through the world of quilting, they learn some very useful tips and tricks and techniques that will help them through the frustrating parts -- which, I would like to think-- this thread has actually done for at least one person.
RST
RST:
I bit my tongue when it came to the mystery/qal topic! For me, I spend too much money to not know what the end product will look like! Yeah, so I'm a control freak!
(just shoot me now! lol)
And I don't even go down the "to prewash or not" road. I don't, but I happen like the feel of unwashed fabric and I find it easier to cut but that's just me. By all means, if someone wants to spend the time and energy to prewash, more power to them! Besides, I hate to iron it after washing.
In general, I think we're a lot a like in our methods and thinking when it comes to quilting.
Like you I rarely buy patterns or books and have gotten to the point that I will open a pattern/book/magazine in the store prior to purchasing just to see what type of instructions are given. Unfortunately, I learned this lesson the hard way.
Next time you have a question that might set the world on fire, shoot me a PM and we'll have our own discussion!