Hi everyone

Im making a table runner on my featherweight, and I dont have a 1/4 inch foot that fits (yet). But, I was wondering that if I sew the whole pattern using just the width of the normal presser foot, that it wont stuff the pattern up? What i mean is, it wont matter if I do the whole pattern with a 1/2 inch seam, or a bit under 1/4 inch seam, as long as they are all the same.

The only thing that it will do, is make the finished top either smaller or bigger? Have i got that right?

TIA :thumbup:

It depends on that pattern. If it has a lot of pieces it will effect the block.

its the Simply a Pleasure Table runner pattern, if thats any help

If the pattern has triangles, the tips may "float" rather than just meet. If it is OK with you it will be fine. If it is mainly squares, it will be a little bigger.

If you have any points in the pattern it can make a huge difference. Best to measure 1/4 inch from needle and mark it on your plate with painters tape or other tape that doesn't leave residue. Enjoy your project!

awesome horse, by the way! do try the sticky notes.

Oh thats a great idea, I never thought of that!!!

Thanks so much for all your responses, Ill be sure to post a pic when its done! :-) :-D

It definitely will make a difference. About the only design you can do by changing the seam allowance size is one of squares and perhaps rectangles. All other 1/4" seam allowance or the pieces won't fit.
Mark your throat plate with tape to get the 1/4" seam.
Accuracy is important.

you do not need a special foot to sew a 1/4" seam, lots of people never break down and buy a 1/4" foot. remove the foot from your machine, put the needle in the down position, measure from the needle 1/4" and make a little mark; run a piece of tape along the mark giving you a 1/4" guide line to follow. (some people use something fairly thick like a piece of moleskin as a guide. i have been using this method for 10 years. i have read so many posts of ... my 1/4" foot is wrong....well, instead of depending on a tool that may or may not be correct making your own guide you know it's right :)
if you choose to use a larger seam allowance you really need to go through your pattern and 'do the math' to adjust every piece. it only takes 4 seams for you to be off a whole inch if you sew 1/2" instead of 1/4" it adds up fast. better to find your 1/4".