So many wonderful ideas shared here... I love all of the positive, constructive criticism
I really like how your floral and red fabrics work together in this block. I am learning, as well, from the great advice shared already. I’m just under one year sewing/quilting myself and will emphasize what’s been helpful to me as I, too, am trying to get my points lined up, blocks laying flat and finishing at the correct size.
The recommendations that have made the biggest improvement to my accuracy, so far:
#1 - Cutting accurately is the first, necessary step for accurate results - ruler ON the fabric not off the edge.
#2 - Use sharp rotary blades and needles - I change them out more often now than when I started.
#3 - I pin often but will now try the glue method - it’s about keeping the fabrics in place.
#4 - Now I instinctively use a stiletto to keep things moving straight under the needle (didn’t when I started)
#5 - I use a Seam Gauge to set my machines seam guide - the gauge is a plastic tool you fit under your needle usedto
line up the metal guide that screws into the bed of the machine and guides the fabrics accurately through the needle.
#6 - I do a test every time I start a project to ensure I’m getting an accurate seam allowance with the fabric, thread and needle I’m using for that project (so many little things can alter your seam and final block size). I cut three strips of the fabric From my project at 1 1/2” wide and sew them together (side-by-side) press seams to one side and measure total width to confirm 3 1/2” across if not, adjust guide, repeat process until accurate.
#7 - I starch everything - my fabric before cutting it, my blocks as I piece them. Everything sews together so much better at each stage when pressed with starch. Be very careful when pressing and sewing fabrics on the bias as it distorts easily.
#8 - I have found having the right tools can help improve your accuracy and increase your enjoyment while on your quilting adventure, Example: invest in the same brand of basic cutting rulers - I like Creative Grids. Same brand because different brands do not measure exactly the same - we need consistently. Also, I’ve found certain specialty rulers can really help with certain blocks. Example: flying geese blocks, curved blocks, etc.
#9 - Use quality thread and use it consistently when piecing - I like aurifil 50 wt but know there are many other good brands available - my point is to find something you like and to use it consistently if it’s working well for you.
#10 - I committed to doing the Bonnie Hunter Mystery in November because I read it’s a fantastic way to learn how to piece well - there’s a thread on here that is wonderful to follow along with fellow QBers. I’m almost done putting the top together and have learned more doing this mystery than anything else. My first blocks are far from perfect but I made a second batch to enlarge the quilt and they are soooo much more accurate because of all I learned thru the process! I highly recommend committing to do one of her mystery quilts and to gather all the expertise shared by those far wiser on this board - incredibly helpful for a newer person to learn, keep motivated and realize you CAN do this!
It’s no wonder I’m repeating what others might have already mentioned - I have learned all that I know by following the lead of the wonderful folks on this board for the past 10 months
I think the unspoken rule is that we all must pay it forward to the next generation of members on here. Lastly, have fun and keep sharing with us so we can all learn together!
Christine