Joining 8 intersecting points.. any tricks?
 

I am making the free Craftsy 2016 BOM and step one includes joining QSTs. The corners have 8 points intersecting and wow... it is bulky and won't even lie remotely flat.

Anyone have any tricks/tips/hints for reducing bulk and making these corners play nice?

I iron the seams open. That helps a lot. Also hitting the seam with a hammer really helps flatten it too.

Part of that problem for me is that points seem to stretch causing it not to lay flat too. I always increase the seam allowance just a tad at that point to fix that. I like the hammer idea! I have a sledge hammer that I think I'll get out.

I have done what Tartan mention. They really are very difficult to manage with the excess bulk.

Thanks for the help everyone. I manhandled the stink out of them and ending up twirling the centers. It is better, but still lumpy and bulky. Just when I thought my quilting skills were improving, I get served a piece of humble pie by simple QSTs :)

Hammer time! Or at least a rubber mallet. Sounds crazy, but it actually works some how. I guess it removes extra airspace.

That's the best explanation!

Hammer breaks down the fibers...remember you are dealing with cotton, a natural fiber. Better to use a clapper/ steam.....Nancy's notions sell the real thing....just some thoughts....some sew from the intersection out , thus two sews...or us it from edge to center....not sure, you can tell I've not done it, just read it somewhere.....

A hammer works to flatten meat and poultry, so it makes some sense that it would work on cotton. As long as the strength of the seams aren't threatened, I'd go ahead.

Geri B makes a good point about sewing from the center (of such a crowded intersection) out, but patterns don't always specify that. They should, though!

FWIW, I have been pressing almost all my (machine-sown) seams open for the last two years. While it can be a bother, I've encountered no problems in terms of seam strength and have begun to recommend it to almost everyone. It definitely distributes the seam fabric more evenly.

Sorry, I meant machine-sewn! Can you tell I'm an avid gardener currently obsessed with seed sowing? :)

trim the seam allowance helps do not hammer press press press

Trim the seam allowance, steam/press/clap & when all else fails, paper piece.

Has anyone used this quilting tool? It's called a Wacker and it is like a rubber mallet to hit the seams flat. They say that it does not damage the fabric.
https://www.piecesbewithyou.com/shop/product/Wkr/

8? Star block? Sounds serious!
sandy