We birth most of our quilts for our children's project at guild, and in the past I have used that technique for Lutheran World Relief quilts. The first step for us after the sewing is to trim the batting at the seam allowance (which is at least 1/2"). Also the corners are trimmed. The quilt is turned, and we use a tool, such as a large crochet hook from the inside to get those corners turned neatly. The quilt edges are then pressed before topstitching all around. To reduce time standing at the ironing board, I have pinned all the way around every 6" or so while sitting at watching TV. I have never inserted my hand into the sandwich while pressing.