malfromcessnock

Ladies, when instructions say to use a "scant" 1/4" seam, what do they mean? More than or less than a 1/4"?

No doubt a simple thing, but I need clarification on this.

Thanks so much.

MJONW

Slightly ...and I do mean slightly LESS than 1/4" .....

malfromcessnock

Thank you MJ, hugs

malfromcessnock

So why do they suggest a "scant" seam allowance when "slightly" indicates to me - just a feather. Surely it wouldn't make any difference would it?

DawnMarie

This is what I've been told about a scant 1/4" seam:
It's a needles width smaller than 1/4". Then, when the fabric is pressed, it doesn't skew the measurements due to the fold in the fabric.

Holice

usually one needle click to right - or less than 1/4" to accommodate for the fold. I posted yesterday a statement from another site about the 1/4". However, one should measure to determine just how much adjustment one needs to make. The bottom line is will all the pieces fit. If doing squares then it doesn't make much difference but when you start putting other shapes together then the adjustment is importment so they will fit.

kheliwud

I have read that "scant" means 2 threads less. I have never found it to really matter, until I started a pattern with 45 degree cuts. Then it REALLY matters!

For most patterns, if your 1/4" seam is more/less scant, the Quilt Police will leave you alone!

Ed

Thank you, I did not know either.

Painiacs

Ty

Glassquilt

Test with scrap fabric. Accurately cut three strip 1-1/2".
Sew with 1/4" seam, press and measure. Should measure 3".
If it's smaller make another test and use a smaller seam allowance.
If it's bigger make another test and use a bigger seam allowance.
Eventually you'll get it and the test will measure 3".

This is more important in quilts with more than one style block. If the quilt is made up of one block everything will match.