Yes, a scant seam and a 1/4 seam will make a difference in some patterns. It can mean cut off points. Some patterns it doesn't matter. I made a layer cake pattern and got the best points I have ever made. Try putting down a piece of masking tape in the scant seam spot and line up your fabrics like that. When I made mine, I pulled the papers off after I had cut out the squares. Since the scant seam isn't printed, I saw no reason to keep them on till the block was finished. I haven't tried the cup cake patterns. But I love the Cake Mixes.