Originally Posted by frugalfabrics
I press the seams to one side...I've never pressed them open.
I would think that with the seams pressed open, it leaves for a greater chance of the seem coming apart since all the pressure is totally on the thread...whereas, if it's pressed to one side, there is less pressure directly on the thread .
I think originally it was to press to the side when quilting because they were all hand pieced and needed the extra support of the seam folded over the stitching. Now, since most of us machine stitch, it shouldn't matter so much. Garments are pressed open and think of all the wear an underarm or side seam gets on a shirt and it doesn't tear apart. I still press to the side though unless I'm doing something that has tons of joint seams and too much bulk, then i will press open. I hope this helps. Happy sewing.