How to Check Quilt block Accuracy & Fix Sizing Issues | QUILTING TIPS for Perfect Blocks
Are your quilt blocks not coming out the right size? In this excerpt from the Dilly Dally Quilt Class, I walk you through how to check your seam allowance and ensure your blocks or units finish at the correct size. I demonstrate by sewing 2″ squares together, checking my 1/4″ seam allowance, and measuring the finished piece to make sure it’s accurate at 3 1/2″. If your quilt blocks are coming out too small or too large, this video will help you troubleshoot and improve your accuracy for perfectly sized blocks every time!
Best Practices for an Accurate 1/4″ Seam Allowance
- Understanding the quarter-inch vs. scant quarter-inch seam
- A true quarter-inch seam is exactly 1/4″ from the needle to the fabric edge.
- A scant quarter-inch seam is just a thread or two narrower than a true quarter-inch. This accounts for the small amount of fabric lost when pressing seams to the side, helping your finished block match the intended size.
- Checking & Adjusting Your Seam Allowance
- Use a seam guide: Attach a quarter-inch presser foot or use your machine’s needle plate to keep seams consistent.
- Test your seam: Sew (2) 2″ fabric squares together, press, and measure the finished unit–it should be 3 1/2″ wide. If it’s smaller, your seam allowance is too large; if it’s bigger, your seam is too small.
- Make fine adjustments: If your seam is too wide, shift the edge of your fabric to the left. If it is too narrow, move it slightly to the right.
- Measuring & Ensuring Accuracy
- Use a clear ruler: Place a quilting ruler over your sewn unit to check the finished size.
- Measure Before & After Pressing: Fabric can stretch or shrink slightly when pressed. Double–check after pressing to ensure accuracy.
- Check multiple units: Make a few test blocks and measure them to confirm consistency before continuing with your quilt.
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Products used in the demo
- Fabrics I am using:
- Sewing Machine Station:
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