MadQuilter

Tape a post-it pad to the correct position on your machine bed using blue tape. That way you can align the fabric.
Another option is to use a thinner thread - maybe 60 weight.
Another option is to determine if it really matters that the blocks are a little smaller. As long as they are consistent, and you don't lose any points, you could just leave them as is.

Girlfriend

Try using Aurifil thread, it is thinner. I used to use Metrosene, but it made my 1/4" seam too fat.

Annaquilts

Use a cutting technique in which you sew pieces but then trim down to the correct size. You can also set your needle a couple of millimeters to the right if you machine permits it.

Annaquilts

Yes, this too. I also noticed that and now use Aurafil for most of my piecing.

117becca

i use the magnetic seam guide that I bought at JoAnn's years ago. It has a strong magnet on it that sticks to the throat plate. I also say that I have an old machine, so it is totally made out of metal. That has been my life saver for achieving consistent seam width.

scrappingfaye58

I hold to the theory that it is MY quilt... and as long as I am consistent it will be fine! When I am working on a block swap, then I do a lot of the things already suggested and try to be as close to perfect as humanly possible. When I first started quilting I saw a lot of Mary Ellen Hopkins on TV, and I loved her saying that it is YOUR 1/4 " and as long as you are consistent, it will all work out fine...

happyquiltmom

Here's a simple thought: what are you looking at while you sew a seam? Don't look at the needle, or even the side of the foot near the needle. Look at the point just in front of the foot on its right side, the "right front corner" of the foot. I've found that, by concentrating on this point, it is much easier to get a consistent, straight seam. Our hands naturally move things toward what our eyes see. I discovered this while biking. If I am trying to avoid a pothole, or a rock, etc., I have to look at the path I need to take to avoid it. If I look at the obstacle, I will hit it every time.

ILoveToQuilt

I'm of the "as long as each seam is consistent" group. I also sometimes belong to the "trim it to scant 1/4 inch" group (especially if the block has lots of seams it is easier for me to trim it down after the fact).

Remember, there is no such thing as the quilt police, so do your seams "your way", just keep them all the same.


Anita