Is there a difference or a 'rule' for using or not using steam for pressing squares. Also, how do I get rust out of my iron, I always forget to empty my iron when I am done. not smart to do that. Thanks you in advance.

Pressing with steam may distort your blocks. I use steam, but I do starch my fabrics before cutting, so it isn't an issue. :D:D:D

I use steam 95% of the time, but when working with bias cut/blocks I try to remember "no steam". IMHO it is a personal choice.

Rusty iron ~ If it was me . . . replace it! I would be so afraid that when I am working on my light colored quilts, that is when it will spurt it's rust . . grrr

I agree about replacing the iron. I never heard of rust in them! I also use a dry iron for pressing blocks.

ditch the rusted iron I press with steam on everything except stuff I have starched.

I would replace your iron - I always press with steam

Thank you to everyone. I have a brand new iron still in the box, guess I will be getting it out. That makes the most sense, I just hate to part with this one. Oh well.
Thanks again. Carol

I find I have less distortion with starch and a dry iron.

Probably not the iron that's rusted but calcium/water deposit build up. ALWAYS use distilled water in your iron. My favorite iron is one that I picked up at Dollar General for $9. It steams well or the steam can be turned off, it's lightwieght even when filled with water and it's teflon coated.

When I starch my fabric - I get a build up of what appears to be starch on the bottom of my iron - what causes that the happen? How do you remove it.