When hand stitching, using a 1/4" seam allowance (or whatever you are using)...keep it accurate. Don't stitch to the very end of the squares...stop the width of the seam allowance from the edge (1/4", or whatever the seam allowance is).
When joining rows/sections...stitch to where the joined squares are, put the needle through the seam allowance, at the exact spot your stitching stopped (1/4" stop point), and bring it out the other side...you don't want to stitch down any seam allowance, as this will throw your seams off, no matter how many pins you use. If you have a seam that is off a stitch or two...try pressing the seam allowance in the opposite direction...sometimes that will help them line up. Has to do with the thickness of the thread or something.
Another important thing when hand or machine stitching...press every seam...press with right sides together (set the seam) then press them to one side or open, however you do them. Pressing will help with lining up the seams.
Originally Posted by
suncenter
Hi Everyone,
I'm hand piecing a very large quilt with very small squares. (King size postage stamp, was I crazy?) I have been on and off with being able to line up my seams when joining rows. Any tips? This is my first hand piecing. Also will it take me years more to quilt it? Or will that go easier than the piecing?
Any tips for speed and accuracy appreciated. I've been working on it for a few years now and only 1/4 through the piecing. (I have put it away for two and three months at a time though).
Thanks,
Sun