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question for you experienced quilters

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Old 09-14-2010, 07:33 PM
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Hello everyone
i have a question, i noticed on some of the site i have visited that when pressing most seams are pressed towards the darker fabric, But i have also seen seams pressed opened , My questions when do you press the seams open , will this make a difference when you press, thank yall for all your help i am so sorry i have to keep asking questions
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Old 09-14-2010, 07:48 PM
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Well, usually I press toward the dark fabric. If I can't do that, I check after it is all pieced to make sure the dark doesn't "shadow" through the light fabric. If it does, I carefully trim a little of the dark seam allowance so it is a tiny bit shorter than the light seam allowance.

Some quilts just need the seams pressed open, like the One Block Wonder. There would just be too much bulk in the center of the hexagons if you didn't. Some people just press them open because they like to.
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Old 09-14-2010, 07:56 PM
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I usually press towards the darker fabric, or at least I try.
Pressing seams to the side or pressing seams open depends on the person. Some say ONLY press open, some say ONLY press to the side. Who's right? dunno....but I don't press mine open unless I'm sewing clothing.
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Old 09-14-2010, 07:57 PM
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Occasionally a pattern will tell you to press seams open-- this is to reduce bulk in that area. Perhaps where several points meet the pattern will recommend pressing open the sa.
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Old 09-14-2010, 07:58 PM
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I usually press to the dark fabric so it is less noticeable. But sometimes you just have to press to the light. I don't press seams open because some batting can show through the seam if it gets pulled open.
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Old 09-14-2010, 07:59 PM
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I've heard that pressing the seams open weakens the quilt through use. By pressing to one side, the seam does not get pulled on as much and there is less chance of wear and tear. I find it quicker too to press to one side rather than opening up the seams.
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Old 09-14-2010, 08:04 PM
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I hand quilt my quilts so I press open. It's easier to go thru only 2 layers of fabric (plus backing fabric) and I never know what side of the seam the hand quilting will go
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Old 09-14-2010, 08:11 PM
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lots of great information , on how to pree the seams i really appreicate all your input on this now after i get my squares sewen together pressed i would then square it up then i have to add the border toit am i right on the border would i measure from sides then top and bottom or is it opposite which way is better like i said i am learning so i will be asking lots of questions
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