I'd forgotten how hard it is for me keeping everything lined up nicely and straight when sewing a quilt block. It has been so long since I've done one and I think that's one reason why I'd decided that applique' was more my forte'. Any hints or suggestions for me?

TIA

None from me. Applique is my thing too. It goes much faster than just piecing, at least in my mind it does.

Personally I think accurate cutting and making sure the sewing is a quarter of an inch is the only way to get everything to line up right... I try to be as precise as I can.. I do notice when I take the time and care that my blocks go together without any problem..

i agree with Diamonds, take time to cut as accurate as u can. i also use pins, which for me is a must, (giggle) I've been told that i over pin, but it works for me and my work is usely right on. Also check even double check to see if you have your machine set to sew an accurate 1/4 in seam allowance. When i follow these guide lines and when i see my sewing is going well, i'm so happy and i don't have to rip out work and redo. I take my time and enjoying myself. I still haven't tried applique, one day i will give it a try.

Anything over 5 inches I pin! I can't keep them straight without them.

pressing also makes a big difference for me. i've messed up some pretty well done blocks by getting a bit too .... shall we say ... enthusiasic (?) .... and ironing them 'til they're all out of wack. :shock:

of couse, the flip side of that is that careful, clever pressing has helped me straighten out some pretty wacky blocks, too. :mrgreen:

Denise, I pin everything too :lol:

I have to watch the press verses iron thing, they will lose shape especially those triangles you work so hard on. :evil:

I agree. My blocks come out best when I use care and accuracy in cutting (measure twice; cut once) and pressing, lots of patience and myriads of pins. I can't keep anything really straight without pins.

Connie

Other than 1/4 inch seams, when you finish a block, square it up to a certain size- 10 inch or 12 inch or whatever. When you finish your blocks, trim them so they are all the same size and your quilt blocks will fit better. If it is a sampler quilt, you may have to cut some of the block off or even maybe add a small border to make each block the same size.

Hope this helps.