I realize that the scant 1/4" is the standard for pre-packaged templates and patterns, so things won't go together right with those.

If you're making your own templates, does it really matter? Are there really any real advantages to sewing at a scant 1/4" as compared to a scant 1/2"? How did 1/4" become the standard anyway?

I think as long as whatever seam allowance you want is drafted into the templates and you stay consistant you could do what ever you want.

There was a post once on how the 1/4" came to be but I dont remember what it said and dont remember what the post was called :oops:

Most of my life I've done seat-of-your pants quilts. If you require exact sizes and piecing, then consistant seams are needed. If your quilts evolve as you go along, it is not so much. I really would not go skinnier on seams if the finished product was going to be used and washed in a machine, just because fixing tear-outs is a big pain in the butt.

I find wider seams easier to work with on curves. If I have to clip a little to ease them in, I am more comfortable having extra.

Also, a lot depends on the style you are working in. Some patterns demand precision and uniformity, some don't.

I think the 1/4" seam became the standard due to less bulk in the seams and at the joining of the blocks.
I know that 4 seams coming together with 1/4" inch seams can be bulky, could you imagine on star blocks and compass and fans...oh my :shock:
I couldn't imagine hand quilting those puppies with a 1/2" seam...
Took me along time to get used to the scant seam.
K

I agree with KO24....If you have to sew by hand threw all that many layers you would find out why 1/4 inch seam was adapted...to me if you are going to start quilting you might as well bite the bullet and get use to using 1/4 seam....and once you do your gonna ask yourself why would you use 1/2 seam... :lol: My Mom done this same thing...she done several 1/2 seams and now she asks herslef why... :lol:

but try it's your quilt do what you are comfortable with.....no set rule...just suggestions :D