PatPitter

I've been trying some hand piecing lately using Jinny Beyer's techniques. One question I have is why in hand piecing do we start the seam 1/4-inch from the edge but in machine piecing we start the seam at the edge of the fabric?

Tartan

If you have Y or inset seams in a pattern, you need to be able rotate the seams therefore you need the seam allowance to be free.

bearisgray

If one starts 1/4 inch from the edge, the seam allowances can be pressed in any direction.

One can start machine piecing 1/4 inch from the edge, but that requires backstitching or hand tying the threads.

PatPitter

I understand not going to the edge for y-seams. But for other seams. Such as I'm sewing together pieces for the arc on a double wedding ring, any reason why I can't just start near the edge with hand piecing?

bearisgray

Make two units - one with starting seams 1/4 inch from the edge - one starting at the edge - and then try pressing them.

See which works better for you.

PatPitter

Good idea

popover

No law says you can't do it that way. Its usually just a little harder to get started without pulling fabric threads loose.