ILoveToQuilt

I usually do this when piecing blocks. However, I always press to set my seams when I am paper piecing.

jmoore

I press to set 99% of my seams before pressing to one side (or sometimes open). Was taught to do it so it became an automatic habit.

JENNR8R

I've always read that it's important to "set the stitches" first. The only person that disagrees that I've run across is Janet Pray. She is a clothes designer and teacher. She calls it a myth: http://stores.islandersewing.com/con...%20Handout.pdf

Sewing “Myth Busters”by Janet Pray

“Setting the Stitches”The first time I heard this term I was curious and then as it was explained to me, I wasbaffled! For those of you who have never heard of “setting the stitches”, here is whatthey tell me: You sew the seam then press flat before pressing open (on all types offabrics). This is to “meld” the stitches with the fabric. WHAT? How is that even possible?If it is possible, why isn’t it more difficult to pull the stitches out when needed? I haveasked every expert I know and not one subscribes to or believes in this operation. Myconsidered conclusion: this is an extra step that has no real purpose and will not make any difference in thequality of your project, however it will make your project take a little longer.

Ariannaquilts

I was taught that it relaxes the thread. I can't see the harm in doing it so why not. Besides it really works well with open seams, definitely lay flatter.

maviskw

[QUOTE=Cactus Stitchin;8164406] The reason given as I remember, was that pressing the way it was sewn first ‘relaxed’ the tension on the stitches and smoothed the small ripples left after sewing. [QUOTE]

The ripples are what I notice after sewing. After pressing there are no ripples.

KwiltyKahy

Nancy Ziemen always taught that step. Good enough for her. . . .

Macybaby

If you want to prove that it helps - sew two seams and press one, then remove them. For me, set seams take a lot more effort to remove, so I don't believe it's a myth.