Quilting tip #3

[homesteadmamma]

Pressing your artwork - it is very important when doing your blocks, you press your work the right way.    I always like my work on the back to be as neat as my work on the front.  (Sometimes I'm not careful and it shows up when I've finished quilting the quilt.)

Always press both seams the same direction.    This makes your quilt stronger and the seams don't come apart as easily.

Usually, most directions will show you how to press those seams.    They are usually pressed toward the darkest color, unless the pattern needs them to be pressed the opposite way.    The reason for that is because you don't want the darker seams showing up on your light material when you've put your quilt together.

When sewing your blocks, always try to keep your seams the way they are pressed, rather than having them bent towards the way your sewing.   This too makes a difference when you come to putting the quilt together.    You will notice that you have little "bumps".

These tips might mean sewing a little slower or taking a bit more time, but it will be well worth it in the end.  

[SewCrafty]

Thanks CJ!

[frugalmel]

Thanks CJ. I had a lot of trouble with my old machine's feed dogs catching the fold. So far I haven't had as much trouble. (I haven't done as many blocks on it though) We'll see I guess.

[Heather]

This is honestly something I have trouble with. I don't know why but sometimes the material just doesn't want to "fall" the way I want it to!!