Still on the Learning Curve

Joan Ford's book, Cut the Scraps, has an interesting beginning section where she discusses the importance of using a scant 1/4" seam.  She is the second source I've read this week (also CLK Quilts blog  http://clkquilt.wordpress.com/2011/05/30/do-your-blocks-end-up-too-small/ ) that covers the "scant" 1/4" seam and shows the difference it makes.  I thought 1/4" seams were the goal, but the scant 1/4" seam takes into consideration the thread and pressing space, if I understand it correctly.  Joan shows an experiment in her book, and I decided to try it for myself.  I used my Accuquilt Go! value die to cut 2.5" squares accurately, then sewed two squares together using the 1/4" seam marker on my machine and the normal presser foot and another two using the 1/4" presser foot attached.  Then I pressed them according to her directions (first press the seam, then take one square over and press from the other square using the side of your iron, then carefully press down the fabric.  These are my results:

There is exactly 1/8" difference because the scant 1/4" seam is 1/16" inch less.  So now I know that my 1/4" presser foot gives me a scant 1/4" seam, something I didn't know before.  It also explains why when I'm too lazy to change presser feet I may have problems, or if I'm following a pattern that doesn't use the scant seam allowance. 

I suppose you all know this already and are saying" Boy, Joanna, where have you been?"  Well, I don't usually care unless I run into difficulty and I recently did with some blocks.  Then I was the "Why" kid.    I knew I was supposed to use the 1/4" seam, but now I know why and that I should really use the scant 1/4" seam.  Makes a difference.

I finished the lapghan to donate.  I downloaded the directions to make this from someone's blog, but her blog address isn't listed on them, so I can't give her credit.  However, if I do come across her blog I will credit her with the design. 

Janet Wickell did not forget us.  She has given us a new block for the scrap happy scrap quilt along, so that is back in production.  I made a list of the "in progress" projects I have and came up with seven, not counting my " want to make" projects or gifts I have in mind to put together, or crochet/cross stitch projects. 

I cannot post a comment on blogs that have an embedded comment section because Blogger hasn't fixed that issue yet.  It's Daffycat showed how to change your comment section to the pop up window type , and it is the workaround for those of us who have been left out in the cold by Blogger/Google.  Here's the link to her post if you are interested. http://itsdaffycat.blogspot.com/2011/05/blogger-problems.html  I understand if you don't want to alter your blog.  I will be resorting to emails until Blogger gets this resolved.

I've been very gabby today.  Hope you are all well.  Thinking of all of you.

God Bless You.