To steam or not to steam when pieceing
 

I have always used steam in my iron when pressing my quilting fabric, pieces and blocks. It just makes the fabric so flat.

However, a local quilt shop owner, who I am taking a class under on how to use the Creative Grids House Ruler, said she never steams. However, she does spray starch on the back of the fabrics, pieces & completed blocks.

Any thoughts on this?

I use steam and, of course, I understand that steaming and swirling the iron around can possibly cause stretching. I have always done it that way. I find that spray starching everything isn't my thing either.

I use a dry iron but I have 2 mister bottles for pressing. One with just water and one with starch. I starch my fabric before cutting and starch my block again when completed. I tend to leave my starching until after my appliqué is complete if I am using a fusible. I listen to instructors and do what they say at a class because you are paying to learn what they are teaching. After class....I do what I want.:D

actually I use steam if I think about it.

Well I spray starch my fabric before cutting and after that I use steam. I know everyone says not to, but I am pressing not ironing and haven't had any issues so far.

I always use steam since I get much flatter seams and they are less likely to 'flip' on me when sewing.

I'm a steamer, too! If I'm working with fabric cut on the bias I also starch or when the fabric is a bit too soft.

It's a personal preference. Don't let the quilt police wear you down about this. If you like steam, use steam. If you don't, dont. As long as you're careful not to stretch the block, all is good. I've always used steam, but have moments (especially with very small or intricately pieced blocks) where I won't use it.

I use a spray because I'm lazy. I don't like refilling the iron all the time.

I use a spritzer bottle and dry iron because i got tired of steam burns on my fingers....and the dry iron alone just never seems to quite do the trick for me....other times i use a dry iron and spray starch. As cindi said....it's all what works best for you on any given block.