Hi, I just offically joined the forum after following along for two weeks.
And I need some help. I took a S&W class yesterday and it went pretty good, I actually sewed one block together, and decided I didn't like the background fabric, the block was distorted figured it was because of the choice of fabric.
So today I made another block with different background fabric, well, that one also came out distorted. I was very careful pressing (not ironing). All fabrics I am using are quilt shop quality cotton.
I am making a 8 point star so there are lots of bias sides that I have to sew on to. Any ideas why this is not working out for me. The finished block is wavy. I do not like it, and am ready to toss this whole project in the forget it pile!
Can you tell I am pulling my hair out! The teacher never mentioned anything special about sewing on the bias sides.
And what could I do with my pre cut diamonds, if I can't figure out the problem. Hmmm.
Thanks Mariynn

You have to handle these bias cuts VERY carefully or they will distort. Also make sure your 1/4" seams are very accurate.

I spray starch my fabric very stiff before cutting. It stabilizes those bias edges, and I have very little if any distortion. :D:D:D

Welcome from Washington

I agree that starching your fabrics helps lots! :thumbup:

Did you press your seams open? I have taught Stack and Whack, so I am trying to figure out why it would wave. Also, could you post a photo? Sometimes it helps more to see the finished block.

First time posting a pic, hope it works.
This block does not lay flat and does not measure square.
Thanks for looking. Mare

Thanks for posting the photo. I love your colors. I do agree that it looks like the background fabric has stretched on the bias. Starching will probably help solve this problem. It will be a gorgeous quilt.

One other thing you can try to be very careful about is how you feed the fabric into your sewing machine. Make sure it goes in by it's self and you aren't pushing or pulling on the fabric.

Double check your seams, it looks tome as if they might be off a little. And, if the seams check out, Starch your block ,pin it to something that will hold it square, pin all around, then let it dry on its own. Sometimes that will shrink a stretched edge. What the others are saying about starching the fabric really does make a difference, I just found that out recently. You have to be really careful with bias edges, no pulling or pushing when sewing and pressing. Just guide the fabric, let the machine pull it through.Don't give up, the start is just beautiful, you chose fabric really well.

OK, it is 5 am here, and last night I had been thinking on this. The other thing the teacher had us change was to make the first cut of the background fabric a 4 1/2 square, which then gets sub cut to a triangle. (well the pattern called for a 4 3/8 square, sub cut to a triangle)
I am going to make one more block using the cut recommended in the pattern, and see what happens.
Could it be that simple!

Your fabric choice is beautiful. Good luck!

Just wanted to post that I did redo the block again and used just the directions in the book, and it came out so much nicer.
I don't understand why the teacher had us adjust things in the pattern. I don't feel the adjustments were needed.
Thank you everyone for your replys and comments.

Ive taught this class several times. If you start your seam from the center point and work outwards, that sometimes helps. also be sure the pressure on your presser foot isnt too strong, that could stretch the fabric as well.
Just take your time piecing, dont let the fabric 'drag' and I think you'll be happier with the results
Diane

Hmmmm...that change in the directions could very well be the entire problem. It doesn't make sense that the instructor told you to change it. Plus...starch..starch...starch....did I mention that it helps to starch???