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Question for rag quilters...

Question for rag quilters...

Old 10-19-2010, 02:13 PM
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I am planning some flannel rag quilts for Christmas gifts. I made a little one last weekend using a half inch seam around each 4.5 inch square. It's really cute, but I'm wondering if I should go for a 1" seam for larger squares--depending on how much the flannel has shrunk since it has been washed and dried, I'm going to end up with 8-9 inch squares to begin with. Will 1/2 inches be enough? I'm using three equal size layers of flannel.

I've looked through many, many photos here but often the seam and block size is not mentioned. I'd love to see what you have done, if you have a photo you can post with your square size/seam size. I'd love to do a big practice piece with 1" seams, but I'm cutting it close on having enough fabric. I am sure it will be okay either way, but would really appreciate any input!!
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Old 10-19-2010, 02:14 PM
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I don't have photos, but I only use a 1/2" seam.
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Old 10-19-2010, 02:18 PM
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I like a one inch seam. To me, it's easier to clip to make the 'ragged' edges. If I used a half inch seam, I would have to be really careful when clipping it.
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Old 10-19-2010, 02:20 PM
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My pattern specifically indicated a 1" seam. I wouldn't have been able to cut 1/2" without cutting seams!
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Old 10-19-2010, 02:23 PM
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I usually use a 1/2" seam on my flannel rag quilts
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Old 10-19-2010, 02:27 PM
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I have always used a 1" seam. I have a pattern that calls for it to be 1". :)
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Old 10-19-2010, 02:46 PM
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I use a 1/2-in. hahaha... I think, so far, the 'vote' is close to 50:50. Perhaps you should go 3/4" !!! ;-)
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Old 10-19-2010, 02:53 PM
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For larger blocks like 7-8 or 9 inches a 1" seam is best. It gives more "rag" to the quilt. There's a free pattern on the Accuquilt site for the 81/2" die and it's a 1" seam. Yes, you can use smaller seams but the ragging won't be as pronounced.
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Old 10-19-2010, 02:59 PM
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Like everything, it seems to be personal preference. I have only made lap size rag quilts, so I don't have experience with the larger size.
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Old 10-19-2010, 03:04 PM
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mollymct, I have made a lot of rag quilts, and I always cut my squares 8 1/2" square, and I make a 3/4" seam. I have seen the 8 1/2" squares sewn with a 1" seam and I like the look of that too. I think a 1/2" seam is not enough for that size square. I vote for either a 3/4" seam, or a 1" seam......just my opinion :)
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