Patterns do accomadate a standard 1/4" seam. The problem lies in the pressing your seams. Seams take up space, so using a scant 1/4" allows for that space so that you wind up with block size the pattern intended it to be. Every full 1/4" seam takes away from the true size of the pattern. Can you imagine trying to cut out an intire quilt scant 1/4" larger. I think a lot of people would quit making quilts.