I do not because steam can distort the pieces. I may use steam for bulky seams or to help "tug" an errand block into submission.

Setting the seams is something I learned in my very first class and most of the time I do it.

Setting the seam helps keep the overlap from happening along the seam line on the right side of the fabric. Did you know that the side you set the seam on will be the one the seam will automatically will fold to with no overlap? If you want the seam to be turned to the dark then set the seam on the dark side. It's commons sense but it didn't click with me for a long time. ;)

I always heard not to use steam? So I never did. Does steam make a difference?

I found this makes a big difference. I have been sewing most of my life and only started doing this last year.

I just kow that it works better to press the seams. Didn't know why.

[QUOTE=wildyard;1797675]so the tailor's clapper is like a wooden press for your seam. OK. I do have a seam stick, so I think I will just try using that for now. Sticks are free, lol. I got mine out of the yard. DH sanded it nice and smoothe for me and it works great. Smiles and Hugs,[/QUOT

I use a wooden clothespin, especially when I am paper peicing. saves from getting up to iron every piece.

You gals/guys rock. I am new to all this and for every pattern I have seen I kept seeing the same thing to press the seams but I didn't know how or why. Now I do, thank you so much for such great insight and advise!!

I thought I was the only one who still knew what a tailor's clapper was and how to use it!