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From your scrap bin
cut 3, 1.5" x 5" fabric strips. Adjust your machine for it's quarter
in stitch. Sew the strips together and press in using your preferred
method. You should now have a pieced unit that measures 3.5" x 5".
If this is not the case then you will need to adjust your sewing
machine accordingly. This test not only accounts for the way your
machine is set, but also the way you cut and press.
Use mole skin or painters tape to create a ridge that you can butt
the fabric up against while you sew. Make sure the tape is at the
correct location to achieve the quarter in seam, then perform the
above test. |
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Prior to pressing
your seams, set them. This is done by leaving the right sides
together and pressing the unit while it is still closed. This will
take care of any puckers that occurred during sewing and tighten the
stitches.
Lightly finger press the seams prior to using the iron
Press the iron down on the seam, pick it back up, and press down on
the next piece. Avoid pushing the iron along the surface of the
fabric as this can cause distortion.
The greatest advantage in pressing seams closed is the strength of
quilt is improved. In addition to this your quilting methods are
unlimited (you can't stitch in the ditch if you press open). For
these reasons we advocate pressing closed.
A good rule to follow when pressing, is to press the seam to the
side of the darkest fabric whenever possible. This is not always
possible as some seam joints simply won't easily move that way. If
this is the case simply press the seam in the direction that creates
the least overall bulk.
Spin your seams when you have intersection of 4 or more.
A finished block that is too small can be enlarged with an
aggressive hot steam
iron :-)
If you have to change the direction of the way a seam was pressed
always close the unit, press, and then repress in the desired
direction. |
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