re: pressing seams in quilts. Very, very seldom should you press seams open as it causes a weaker seam than when pressed closed. "simply" alternate the pressing direction of your seams so when two pieces are joined, the seams go in opposite directions. I say "simply" . . .ha! I can't tell you how many times I've messed up! re: dressmaker's ham - indispensible (oops! I quilt better than I spell) for pressing curved seams on garments.