Originally Posted by
Onebyone
On tip I learned in a class how to have straight seams at the end of a seam is to put your left index finger on the left side of the foot as you reach the end of the seam. Works every time. Classes with excellent quilt makers are so worth the time so take as many as you can. I have learned so many tips and solutions to my sewing problems in classes. If your machine has zig zag function the stitches will always be at a slant. Over 5 mm machine is not easy to get a 1/4 seam without a lot of fussiness.
This is how I end a seam as well. I was never taught this just figured it out on my own. This method also helps when you sew over where seams come together and form a hump. Slow the machine and place your finger next to the left side of the foot and it will prevent the machine from pulling the fabric and having a slimmer seam at the seam join.
You should not sew with your hand in back of your machine unless temporarily assisting the machine to go over a heavy seam. It puts your body in an ackward postion and stress on your back, neck and shoulders.