Originally Posted by Suzy
When I first started quilting I made sure I had an exact 1/4", but depending on the thread I used it wasn't coming out as a 1/4". The thread was a little heavy and therefore the blocks weren't pressing out to what I needed. In learning more as going along I found that using a finer thread and setting the machine needle to just a shy 1/4" was the way to go. Your points are not sewn into the seams etc. After awhile it will become automatic. My personnel preference for thread is aurifil 50wt. makes my piecing so much easier.
Good Luck
Suzy
Yes, the thread we use can make a difference! But ones 'style of sewing can also make a difference. One of my quilting buddies (newbie, she is on her third quilt) was complaining about her blocks not coming out the correct size. After looking at her seams, that was her problem. She was using her 1/4" foot (Janome with a 'guard') BUT she was pushing her fabric so it rolled against the guard. We went through the process of 'testing' her machine for a 1/4" seam. For her she just want the fabric to 'feather' touch the guard. Her next blocks came out wonderful. :)
Every machine, even if it is the same manufacture, will be different. Plus making sure our 1/4" foot is a 1/4". And of course the thread. Then we get into pressing. ALL will make a difference for your 1/4" seams. Once we get them figured out, things will be more rewarding.
With the above taken care of, seeing patterns that say 'scant' (a thread or two) will not be so daunting.