Originally Posted by FabrikQueen
Originally Posted by grann of 6
Originally Posted by FabrikQueen
When sewing the strips together how does one keep them perfectly straight so they don't have a bow (commonly known as a dog leg) in the center of the strip . Even if you sew a perfectly straight 1/4" s eam there is still a bow the strip. There has to be a secret.
Reverse directions when sewing the seams. In other words, when you sew 2 rows together and get to the end, turn around and sew from that end to the beginning of the row you previously sewed. Alternating directions keeps the rows from bowing.
Thank you. Now how do you press the seams...open or to the side?
I've done several bargellos. I tried the method of sewing one direction and the next row the other. I found it doesn't make a particle of difference. What made a difference for me was the pressing. I drew a straight line on my ironing surface and when I pressed each row, I made SURE that the seam lined up to that line. If you can avoid working with width of fabric strips, my suggestion would be to work with 22 - 25" strips, or half the width of fabric. You might waste a bit more, as you won't be able to use the full width, but it won't be much, and the ease of working with the shorter strips makes it worthwhile. And press the seams one way, not open. You may have to re-press when putting them together. Good luck!