well marlaclair, all these tips are great, and I've followed them all for 15 years of quilting and was "close enough" but consistent, so my quilts are "fine". But then 2 things happened, I started sharing and swapping blocks on QB and "close enough" is not good enough any more. And the real turning point was making an Elizabeth Hartman Pattern. She pieces blocks that look paper pieced. I made her Fancy Forest Pattern that had over 1800 pieces in a 67" x 97" quilt. I had to be PERFECT all the time. I conquered consistent & accurate cutting (see thin line same brand rulers), consistent and accurate sewing (see credit card technique), consistent results (see sewing and measuring test strips).
BUT, the three techniques that took me over the top to the next level of ever consistent accuracy was:
1) use very thin thread , in top and bobbin like aurifil 50
2) Heavily starch your fabric before you cut it, (you can wash it out later) and
3) Sew on the line and press your seams open
Best of Luck to you, Jane Quilter