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Machine Piecing
 Accurate machine piecing is essential in quilting. If you want your blocks to fit together properly, you must sew accurate seams. Remember, too, that seam allowances affect the finished size of your quilt. So, it's important to get it right.
In quilting, we're supposed to sew 1/4" seams. But there's a problem. If you followed this advice, your blocks would be smaller than you planned. Why?
When you press your seams, fabric gets taken up in the fold. With each seam, you lose a little more fabric. See how this adds up?
To avoid this, always use a scant 1/4" seam allowance. A scant seam allowance measures slightly less than a regular 1/4" seam (about a thread's width).
A 1/4" presser foot usually has a scant seam allowance built right in. But it's a good idea to ask before you buy. If you don't have this foot, you can make your own seam guide. Here's how:
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- Cut a 2" x 3" piece of graph paper (1/4" grid).
- Slide it under the presser foot, so one square is on the right side of the needle.
- Align needle slightly to the right of the grid line (a hair's width).
- Lower needle into graph paper.
|  | - Place a piece of masking tape against the right edge of grid line.
- Raise the needle and remove graph paper.
|  | - When stitching, keep fabric even with left edge of tape.
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A Few Piecing Basics:- Insert a new needle into your machine. Change your needle often because a dull point can pull threads out of the fabric.
- Set your stitch length at 12-15 stitches per inch. If you have a stitch length dial, set it at 1.75 – 2.0.
Note: When you're machine piecing, don't lock your stitches at the start and finish of your seams, as in regular sewing. You’ll only lock your seams when you sew the quilt layers together.
Test Your Seam Allowance for Accuracy
- Cut three 1 ½” x 4” fabric strips.
- Sew strips together using your seam guide.
- Press seams open.
- Finished piece should measure 3 ½” x 4”. If not, keep adjusting your needle and tape until it does.
Remember, machine piecing requires accuracy. Always make the proper adjustments on your sewing machine before you start any project. Then test the seam allowance for accuracy.
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