Originally Posted by
awilson
I have had this problem before too. I am not sure if this is the "right" way to do it, but its the way that works for me: when following patterns from quilter's cache I align my fabric with the left side of my sewing foot instead of my right with the needle as far to the left as it will go. This seems to give me a true quarter in seam making the blocks 12.5". I don't have a very fancy machine and am pretty new to quilting so I don't know all the "right" ways to do things but this seems to work for me so I am going to keep doing it this way until a better way comes along. Since joining these swaps I have gotton so much better and have learned so many tips and tricks. I am interested to see what other replies your question gets
You might want to check around, maybe on the internet. Most sewing machines have a "quarter inch" presser foot available. It has a hanging down blade that you line your fabric up to, so it aligns your needle for a perfect 1/4". I have bought them for both of my sewing machines. Another foot that is very helpful to me is the "stitch in the ditch" foot, which really works nice to keep you stitches in the ditch, not allowing them to jump up to the other side of the seam. I may not have explained that very well.... so go look up 'Stitch in the Ditch" foot, and "Quarter Inch" foot. those will make your quilt making a lot more fun and easy.
I hope that helps some.
Jupiter