I think cutting your fabric has a lot to do with the 1/4 inch. When cutting you should line up your ruler with center of line on the edge of fabric, not line to left or right.

I don't want a pattern with a scant 1/4 inch seam either. For one thing I always think how well is this thing going to stay together after many washes. Another thing is a scant can be a different size for each person. And smaller then 1/4 inch is harder to sew! Oh my I think I am complaining! sorry!

I'm right there with you Doggramma. I also struggle with a consistent quarter inch much less a scant one. My blocks also pretty much work out to be ok but sometimes a little less, points always match. They say it's practice, practice, practice and this seems true. I keep pressing on!

sounds like what I do also take less if needed go bigger if needed

I agree. Make the pattern for the 1/4" seam. It's just annoying to constantly TRY to get it right for various sewing patterns.

Maybe it's time we all WROTE TO THE PATTERN PEOPLE and say stop with the scant anything.

i still think it is worth the time and materials to do the sample sewing to see what the " finished" size will br.

some variables that can affect the finished size besides the seam width

the size of the cut piece - how is the ruler lined up on the fabric? using die- cuts, strips cut from a june tailor or stripology ruler?

i use a ruler - and when i measure a strip, it is wider that the specifed width by the distance the rutary cutter is from the edge of the ruler.

as others have mentioned, the thickness of the thread and the thickness of the fabric also affect how much is " lost" when the unit is opened up.

also, how is the unit pressed? some people seem to leave a tiny pleat at the seam line instead of getting itbreaaly flat at the seam line.

i think some directions say "scant" to imply that the seam allowances do matter with that pattern.

I agree with bearisgray so many factors affect you piecing. I've also started using 60wt thread and my seams lay much flatter.

I have two bladed 1/4" feet. One that makes a perfect 1/4 and one that makes a lovely scant 1/4" seam. Works for whatever the pattern calls for.

Hello, jackiesmith I sent you a PM!

I use thin thread for piecing and thinner thread for bobbin. I sew with a 1/4 seam and never have a problem with matching or the right size block if my cuts are accurate.