I always do it and agree with all the other post.I did an experiment with both ways and found out the blocks without the pressing didn`t lie as flat,also the size was about 1/16 smaller,you measure this by 8 seams it is 1/2 inch and by 16 sems and you have a whole inch.

janetter,
I starch and press my fabric before I rotary cut it. It seems like it does help to keep the fabric from stretching. Also keeps it laying flat on the cutting mat.

I will try to remember to set my seams. Thanks for the info:)

Setting your seams does make a difference, careful pressing can help keep your block size true. I've heard experts say that you should set your seams, then pressing on the top keeps wrinkles or folds from occuring along the seams. It may seem to be a waste of time, but in the long run it makes your quilt blocks and your quilt stay true to their size and makes piecing easier. I hope I made sense with what I just said.

it never occured to me not to set the seams. i did not think of it as an extra step. i like to do it. I always use starch. It seems to make it more accurate and I can get it just the way I want.

never did till Iread it on this board now I always do. does make a difference

You ladies realize how important setting your seams in a quilt block makes so much difference.
Well just imagine making an entire garment without pressing seams. That is what I did not learn in HomeEc not to press until finished. Thank God I had a mother who knew how to sew and how to tailor. I took 4 years of HomeEc making straight A's. I brought home a finished wool suit with the sleeves so uncomfortable. She took one look and knew they were in wrong. My Home Ec teacher was a real dingbat. Not too many of those young ladies enjoyed sewing. I did and I know today it was due to my mom and her knowledge standing behind me.

what does "set the seams mean?"

It may sound dumb but I don't know what it means to "set the seams" How is it done? Will appreciate if someone would answer.Thank you.

It is very much worth setting the seams.