Setting a Seam
 

Hello All,

My question today is:

Why do we set the seam? what does it buy you? I have done it both ways (setting and not setting) and have noticed NO difference in the piecing or ironing or quilt in general. I will say that I iron seams to one side or another, hardly ever sew them open. perhaps setting is more noticeable when you press them open?

Can someone help explain this?

It is said that "setting the seam" allows the thread to sink into the fabric and gives you a flatter seam. I'm with you and don't really see a difference. I usually do it out of habit, but if I forget I don't go back a do it.

I simply think getting the fabric warm helps it fold over easier. That's all.

Sometimes I do set the seam ... and sometimes I don't .. depends on my mood. I don't think it makes all that much of difference.

I think setting a seam is most helpful when you are stitching HST's. I do try to always set my seams before opening up the block, but sometimes I forget. Anything stitched on a bias does seem to roll over much better when setting the seam first.

I set my seams using a tailor's clapper and I twirl every joined seam. It does make a difference. My blocks lay flat like a piece of paper. It does take time but worth it when every block fits to each other perfectly. I seldom have to square up my blocks or quilt top.

Bella, I agree about twirling all the joining seams. That makes a huge difference for me especially when it comes to the quilting. Before I did that I'd hit those bumps and get weird looking quilting. I have not perfected how to get every seam to twirl but most will.

Sorry to be ignorant, but what do you mean by 'twirling'? It's not a term that I've come across before.

OOOH, I bet your quilts are an absolute dream to longarm!

Twirling- interesting!
http://laquilter.blogspot.com/2009/0...ing-seams.html

http://www.perkinsdrygoods.com/blog/...g-those-seams/

http://lavieenrosie.typepad.com/lavi...-a-poppin.html

I, too, found that setting the seam makes it easier to fold over v. cold.

I set all my seams before I press them to one side. It 'sinks' the piecing thread into the fabric and results in much flatter/squarer/truer blocks when done. For me, it does make a big difference and is worth the time, but if you really can't tell any difference with yours, it may not be worth the bother.

here's a site with some instructions. I have seen a you tube video out there, but can't find it right now... http://crazyquilteronabike.blogspot....ing-seams.html .... I'm a self taught quilter and thought I invented this :o till I read up some and found it's a common practice!

LOL PaperPrincess, I thought the same thing until I saw Eleanor Burns do it!

Bonnie Hunter had pictures and instructions on her blog how to piece the so the seams always twirl. All the longarmers I've used said my quilts were problem free. Too bad I can't say the same for most LA's I've used. LOL