Thanks for this discussion. I've been saying the same thing for the seven years I've been quilting. It's "received knowledge" and just not helpful. I want my units to end up the right size. Imprecise terms just aren't helpful and border on old wives' tales because they persist despite the facts.
Thank you so much Michele! I can't tell you how MUCH I agree with you! Just because "that's the way it's always been done" doesn't mean that there may not be a better or more efficient or more accurate way around the corner. Thank you again for your comment and for watching!
To me, using the new term of "scant quarter inch seam allowance" infers that there are two types of quarter inch seam. But the truth is there is only one accurate seam allowance and this video shows everyone how to get an "accurate quarter inch seam" on any machine every time. And I thank her for maling it!
Painters tape stacking can be fussy so I use self adhesive Velcro…the soft side not the loop side. The height of the Velcro is perfect to create a lip…and the adhesive I have found lasts longer than painters tape even reapplying it many times after changing a bobbin. To make the Velcro easier to grab I turn the very edge under (width closest to me). When I’m paper piecing I just take it off and stick it out of the way on the top of my machine. All other procedures are as Mary described in this video!
After lots of frustration for years, I finally took the ruler I use for cutting my fabric and measured like you did. Some people cut measuring in front of the line, some on, and some behind the line. I used where I cut in front of the line and went over two thread widths. I was thrilled. I sew most of blocks without pinning. I have had great results. I love the painters tape. It helps so much. I sewed with residents of a nursing home, some of whom had physical difficulties, but with the painters tape they were able to guide the fabric and got wonderful results. Thank you for spreading the word. This will help the frustration level of so many other quilters. I can say from experience that it works.
This was very helpful to me. The first time I made a quilt that called for a scant seam, I had no idea what that was. So instead of researching, I figured it meant not quite 1/4” and went for it. The queen size quilt was very intricate, and a gift I was very excited to give. Well, I washed it and so many of my scant seams were “too scant” and came apart! I was devastated. I ended up patching them together by hand. I was not proud to gift it, but I did. I wish I had seen this video before I made that quilt! Thank you!
Thank you so much! That's exactly what I mean when it comes to the term "scant". It's unmeasurable - and I refuse to use it. Thank you for your comment! It's truly appreciated, Kim!
I’ve used painter’s tape, but frequently had difficulty getting the edges of the tape even. Thanks so much for your tip of trimming the tape. Thot will be so much easier than fiddling with it.
Use an old Rotary Blade - I keep an old blade that can no longer be used for fabric - in a cutter that's specifically for paper and tape. Works well! Thanks for watching!
Another way to make the painters tape edge even is to use an exacto knife and cut a chunk of the tape several layers thick off of the roll instead of unrolling it
Excellent tutorial. Learn something new every day! And yes! And I *do not* utilize scant quarter inch seams. A quarter inch in from the end of the fabric is "slight as it is," why sew *weakness* into your masterpiece only to have it rip later. Doesn't make sense to me! ...interesting, this makes so much sense!!!!: This absolutely explains why I don't like "scant seams!"
Thank you Mary, I use my ruler and adjust the needle position to get as close to a 1/4 inch seam. Always test sew and measure the seam but have never checked the finished piece. I will definitely get me some painters tape😂 thank you for sharing your knowledge! I greatly appreciate it.🇦🇺
This is the best video for new quilters when sewing their seams. You did a great job! I am able to get an accurate seam with my edge 1/4" foot and needle position, but many do not have the ability to move their needle. However, I loved your video. It can be used for any size seam.
Thank you so much for your comment! Yes - I absolutely agree - the needle positioning option on a machine is the best option. But this is helpful for those without that option. Thank you for watching!
I have the same Janome machine as you, and I love it, but the 1/4" foot caused me a lot of pain at first. My pieces were inaccurate because the seams were too large. "Scant" was difficul to judge. Eventually I purchased the purple vinyl Qtool Sewing Edge, which works just like your masking tape. It's moveable and reusable, and works better than my 1/4" foot. I wish janome would make a "scant-1/4" foot. I make a 10" postage stamp block from 1.5" scraps of each quilt I make. My earliest ones are 1/4" to 1/2" too small because of the problem you discuss. Thank you for helping new quilters resolve this problem.
That is GREAT information! Thank you - I will check it out. I see that it's made by Marci Baker and I love her products. I have ordered it and will give it a try! Thanks again and thanks for watching!
@@joyfulandmerryquilting If you haven't discovered it yet, here's the title of the video lake8836 is talking about; it gives clear instructions on how to use this great tool to accomplish an accurate scant or 1/4 inch seam: "Why and How to Sew With a Scant 1/4" Quilt Seam, Marci Baker of Alicia's Attic". And here's another YT video that you may appreciate: "What is a 1/4" and a Scant 1/4" Seam Allowance?" that made ME understand the "why" of a scant 1/4 inch seam.
i move my needle to the right so i can take advantage of both feed dogs. then i follow your method from there. my tape ends up going all the way up past the needle just to the right of the feed dogs.
You’d think that by now manufacturers would put a scant 1/4 inch seam mark on the throat plate of all sewing machines. I guess that’s too much to ask, though. But, thank you for the demonstration. I’m getting ready to start a new quilt and I will definitely use this method.
This has nothing to do with semantics. Scant is an unmeasurable term and I believe should NOT be used when quilting. It is confusing and has discouraged many new quilters simply because, in a hobby that is based on precise measurements, there is no numerical value to "scant". Whether or not the word has been used in quilting over the years, it needs to stop. We do NOT sew scant - we sew to create accurate pieces in the end. I'm guessing this video was not something was beneficial to you, but there have been thousands who have appreciated my explanation. Saying that, it's obviously NOT click bait, but rather helpful.
Mary I pin so how do you use the painters tape with pins? I’ve tried tape but get frustrated trying to use pins. Couldn’t figure out how to get around that.
I really don't have a problem with pins. I tape all the way down the front of my machine so the pins farther down the piece don't get caught in the tape (if I'm sewing a long strip). Otherwise, I'm careful to remove pins or keep them out of the way as I'm sewing and really don't have a problem with it. Hope that helps!
If your machine allows for that, moving the needle can definitely help! I personally like having a guide on the right to ensure I'm sewing straight. It’s not really about "fuss," but more about finding what helps with accuracy. You’re welcome to do whatever works best for you, and it sounds like you’ve got it down! Thanks for watching!
That's a great option if you have a machine that has that capability. But yes - for quilters are using machines that are older, or those without all the bells and whistles - and for me, this is a great way to remedy the issue when it comes to accurate seams. Thanks for watching!
My point is the word "scant" is confusing to new quilters and many experienced quilters and I have decided not to use it in my teaching. If you prefer to call it scant, that's certainly up to you. My hope with the video is to simply demonstrate how to position the tape to give you an accurate finished block.
This simple square-in-a-square block was used for easy video demonstration purposes when foundation piecing. The purpose of the video was to show the basic steps for foundation piecing for those who were not familiar with the process - how to use the perforating blade to mark the sewing lines, how to fold the paper, position the pieces, trim the 1/4" seam allowance and then sew on the wrong side of the paper. Yes - the FPP process is most handy for more complicated blocks, but it's just easier for me to teach the process for FPP using the simple block. Thanks for watching!
If you're talking about sewing on a diagonal line or sewing 1/4" on either side of a diagonal line, I don't find that the tape gets in the way, but rather helps me stay on track. My presser foot slides along the side of the tape as I'm sewing on the diagonal line. When I'm sewing 1/4" on either side of the line, I can't use the tape as a guide because I can't see it - and I usually make many HSTs at one time, so i simply remove the tape and replace it when I'm finished. The tape still has some "stickiness" left and I find I can remove it several times before I need to replace it. Works for me! :-)
You said at the end of the video that you have sewn a perfect quarter inch seam. And you said it twice. But you did not sew a quarter inch seam. It was a scant quarter inch seam
The finished piece is a perfect 4 1/2", so I believe my seam was "perfect'. The purpose of the video was to show that the seam that was sewn is not a "scant" seam simply because we don't actually know what the measurement for "scant" is. There is no numerical measurement for the term "scant" and too many quilters have ruined their finished pieces by sewing "too scant" or "not scant enough". But if you follow the instructions in the video, you will sew a perfect seam that will give you a perfect piece in the end.
I never use "scant," quilts were meant to be loved on and washed...Coming from a sewing background using 5/8" on garments, it never made sense to use a scant! Thanks.
I do prefer to trim back when I'm sewing individual pieces together, but when you're sewing a more complex block with many seams and intersections, over-sizing - even if it's just a "scant" is not always an option. Thanks for watching!
That's not so easy if you use an Accuquilt cutter. My hands don't have the strength to cut that many pieces. I can fussy cut a few, but not bunches of blocks or shapes anymore. Plus, that's a lot more figuring to get the measurements correct. If it becomes a math project, it's not fun for me anymore.
I have made about 2 or3 hundred quilts in the 64 years of quilting. I believe there are to much concern about 1/4” seams. Just keep your seams the same throughout. More concern should be on cutting the parts on the proper grain. When sewing across grain like diamonds the grain will stretch.
Thanks for sharing, Faye! It sounds like you have a lot of "hands on" quilting experience. Unfortunately, I have found that it's not always possible to simply sew with consistent seams that are not an accurate 1/4", and then get a perfect block in the end. If all of your pieces are the same size, that will work, but if you are adding larger and smaller pieces to the mix, the tiny amount that "one" is off as compared to another solid piece that is cut to size - they will just not fit together. But, again, with your years of experience, I'm sure you have perfected your piecing. Thanks again for your input!
The point is that many quilters, especially new quilters, are intimidated by the word "scant". It's too subjective and they find themselves guessing where to take their next stitch (which is not always accurate). I choose to ignore the word "scant" as I said in the video, and just create an accurate seam with measuring the final piece rather than trying to figure out where to place my needle when I sew a seam. Tomato-tomahto! Thanks for watching!
@@joyfulandmerryquilting This video is misleading because you’re still positioning the tape for a scant 1/4 inch seam. You try to make it sound like sewing a scant 1/4” seam isn’t necessary to achieve accuracy if they just follow “your method,” which isn’t yours at all. Using stacked painters tape (or Post-It notes or a magnetic seam guide, etc.) has been around since before I was born (I’m 73). My mother secured a small block of wood to the bed of her old Singer machine to use as a seam guide. The scant 1/4” seam allows for the “turn-of-cloth,” which is the proper sewing term for that measurement difference that occurs when a layer of fabric is turned over a stitched seam for proper positioning. It originated in garment sewing for areas like lapels and collars, for example.
This is a good DIY, but it is a bit fussy. There are several products out there that do this exact same thing. All very helpful to get a good scant seam allowance. However, learning to sew a scant seam allowance is an important skill to have as a quilter/seamstress because the tape method does not work for every situation, for example diagonal or stitch and flip piecing. PS your title says never sew a scant 1/4” seam…. but what you demonstrated was how to sew a scant 1/4” seam 😂
My point is that "scant" is a confusing, unmeasurable term and I don't use it when I am piecing or teaching. There is a follow-up video that answers some of the points you brought up. ruclips.net/video/xYL3LhiXB2k/видео.html Thanks for watching.
I'm sorry, but I don't agree with this being "CLICK BAIT". I believe I have explained in the video, my issue is with the word "scant" and why I say NO to using the term "scant" when referring to seams. SCANT is a non-measurable term. Every explanation on how to achieve a "scant" seam has a different place to position your needle or a different method of trying to make your seam "scant". I would rather have an accurate finished piece in the end and that is what this video is about. If you want to call my finished seams (which give me an accurate finished block) "Scant" you're welcome to do so, but I prefer to call them accurate. As a teacher, I have found over and over and over again that the term "Scant" is a confusing word to quilters (new, intermediate, and experienced). In classes, I have tried to explain it, show it, demonstrate it, etc. but in a quilting world where precision is stressed in order for the "puzzle pieces to fit together", an unmeasurable term such as "scant" just doesn't make sense to me. But If it is a term you're comfortable using, then by all means, use it. Also SMH! :-)
If you're addressing the beginning of the video, I'm referring to the term "Scant" and why I don't use it. If you watch the video, you can see that as a quilting teacher I have had many new quilters who have been very discouraged when trying to create a "scant" seam. What they actually need is an accurate seam and "scant" confuses them. That's what I explain. If you watch the entire video, I believe I have explained that term in an easy and non-threatening way. Sorry you were confused.
I started using this method when I started quilting over 30 years ago. I quickly determined that the quarter inch guide or foot were not accurate. Plus I needed a guide for my fabric to follow. I wanted to speed sew and I wanted the "rail" for my fabric to follow. The wool pressing mat made the difference for flatter seams and accuracy. I used a magnetic seam guide once but the vibration of the machine moved it. My machine had a plastic bobbin cover so it works best with all metal. The sticky tape works best for me.
If you notice where she put it, it actually was a scant 1/4". Which is just a thread's distance shorter than a true 1/4" seem. Also, not so on yep squares but if she had seen 3 or more and checked that's when it really starts show a difference.
I'm not sure I understand what you're saying in the second part of your comment, but as for the term "scant", my whole point is threads vary in width and the term "scant" is an unmeasurable term. I also have a follow-up video if you'd like to take a look. www.youtube.com/@joyfulandmerryquilting/videos
That's exactly why I don't use the term "scant". Math doesn't use "unmeasurable terms" when it comes to quilting. You can say "scant" but there is absolutely NO numerical value attached to it which makes it so difficult for new quilters (and many more experienced quilters). I believe that just because an arbitrary term has been used to describe something mathematical over the years, that doesn't mean there isn't a better way to phrase it. i do thank you for watching and thank you for your opinion.
"Scant" is NOT a measurable term and when we quilt we use rulers, numbers, and measurements. If you want to use the term, you're certainly welcome to do so.
I think this proves the point that to get “just the right size”, or an accurate measurement of the sewn fabric pieces, the “scant” quarter inch seam needs to be …properly “scant”! (“Scant”, btw, means just barely “less than”)
As I have said in many of the previous comments - we'll just have to agree to disagree. When quilting, we use precise measurements. The term "scant" has been proven to be very imprecise with quilters of all levels of experience, struggling to figure out what "just barely" or "less than" means. Although your definition appears to be very straightforward by many quilters, I have heard from way too many quilters who struggle with the term, finding "scant" to be very difficult to translate into a measureable term - which is why I created the video. Thanks for watching.
Thank you Mary for this helpful video. In the Shabby Fabric videos a special thick stackable tape is always used. However, they do not demonstraight how to measure and place the tape as you did. You did an excellent job showing how to. Since one of my quarter inch feet for straight stitch has an opening on the 1/4 inch blade itself I just wrapped 3 layers of blue tape on it and it gave me the exact measurement. This makes it possible to change the foot for other pieces that doesn't require 1/4 inch foot and when I need to remove the bobbin. Thank you again. I'll be sure to share this videos with the quilting girls. 😊
Why the dramatics? You created a scant 1/4” seam as soon as you positioned the needle to the right of the 1/4” line on your ruler. An ‘accurate’ 1/4” seam would measure exactly 1/4” from the edge of the fabric to the line of stitching before the seam was pressed-either open or to one side.
I think your opening sentence "Why the dramatics?" makes me think you're probably not going to be open to my explanation, but I'll try anyway. It appears we're both looking at this in two different ways - and that's where the confusion is, especially for new quilters. You obviously are able to work with the term "scant" and have no trouble creating accurate blocks as a result, but there are many (including myself) who just aren't comfortable with the term "scant" and for many the uneven and inaccurate blocks created as a result of NOT sewing a "scant" seam correctly can be overwhelming and discouraging. My point is, the term "scant" is unmeasurable. From my experience as a quilting teacher, when a new quilter (or even an experienced quilter at times) is told to sew a "scant" 1/4" seam, the term "scant" is so confusing. I would rather help them achieve a perfect result rather than try to help them figure out what constitutes a scant seam when it just isn't making sense to them. Believe me, I have taught enough classes to know this IS an issue. It appears that scant is a term that you do not struggle with, so this video is probably not something that would benefit you. For those who DO struggle with the term (and there are MANY from my experience), marking the machine as I have described, is helpful. You're certainly welcome to use the term "scant". Again - my opinion - you're welcome to yours.
@@joyfulandmerryquilting I DO see your viewpoint. As you say, both methods result in an accurate ‘unit’ or ‘block’. However, your method is limited to straight seams. To Wit: Two novice quilters are constructing a simple beginner block such as a 4-or-9 patch. They then decide to try something a little more challenging, such as a snowballed square/rectangle or a flying geese unit. The quilter who was taught the scant 1/4-‘next to the line’-method can now simply apply that method to a diagonal seam. One concept applied to more than one situation. As for dramatics, your click bait title, ‘you should NEVER’ the ‘BOO!’, and the ‘scant spell that has taken over the quilting community’ can hardly be called anything but dramatic. As for that ‘spell’-as you call it-has ‘taken over the quilting community’ is a technique taught by experts for years. Its longevity is a testimony to its effectiveness.
We'll have to agree to disagree. Just because an unmeasureable term has been around since the beginning of time doesn't mean we can't come up with a process to achieve an accurate result that is more definitive and accurate.
This is a click bait video, showing one possible method for achieving a scant quarter inch seam, all the while disparaging the term “scant quarter inch seam”. It is a really nice method for achieving a scant quarter inch seam though.
So, how much is a scant since you found this video is a nice method for achieving the measurment of "scant"? A little more, a little less, a little more than less??? I find that very confusing - as do many of my students as well as even more experienced quilters. Scant is an unmeasurable term - my finished piece is an accurate measurement. BTW - click bait is clicking on something that does not deliver on the topic. As my title states - I always say no to SCANT - always. No click bait there, just my honest truth. I did make a follow-up to this video based on the positive, constructive and kind suggestions made to this video if you're interested...I promise...no click bait...just helpful hints. ruclips.net/video/xYL3LhiXB2k/видео.html Thanks for watching!
Well, yes, but you must be sewing a scant 1/4" in order to get that result. I get it - don't have angst over the term but what you did was mark the scant 1/4" seam.
I'm glad this isn't an issue for you, but for others (especially new quilters) this unmeasurable term has caused them difficulty. How much is a scant? A little, a little more, a little less... If we quit using the term and just sew a seam that gives us an accurate piece in the end - we're good to go! Thanks for watching and for commenting!
Kind of a click-bait title... a more honest title would have been Don't let "SCANT" scare you...or even "How to easily find your perfect quarter inch seam". Your point is that you may need to sew a scant in some situations and here's an easy way to figure out what that is each time. You provided great information but the set-up was so misleading I ended up feeling annoyed. If I had seen this video when I first started I think it would have really confused me. For better or worse, "scant" is the term everyone uses so new quilters need to learn what it means.
Sorry I annoyed you, but I am passionate about this topic and the term SCANT really annoys me - so I guess we're even there. :-) To clarify, "Click bait" means the topic has NOTHING to do with the actual video once you "click on it"...but I believe this title is "spot on"! I NEVER use the term and never call my seams "scant"...ever. Scant DOES scare a lot of new quilters (and experienced quilters) and I feel this is a great alternative to never using the term again.
I'm glad you don't have a problem with the word but for many new quilters (and experienced quilters) this is a confusing an unmeasurable term. I have a follow-up video with some additional information: ruclips.net/video/xYL3LhiXB2k/видео.html
I found that the magnetic seam guide did not remain in place with the vibration of the machine. The tape or Marci Baker's Sewing Edge Strips work the best. Here's the link: quiltwithmarcibaker.com/product-category/quilting-tools/
Mary, I agree with your frustration and your approach. I would modify it in small ways and add a bit. I would test with 3 fabric pieces to make sure a slight difference didn't compound. I would NOT put the seam guide across a top bobbin cover without also using an Exacto or box cutter, after positioning, to allow a bobbin change without starting over. Also, I would emphasize an accurate pressing technique and awareness of thread sizes. I saw a comment referencing Karen Brown at Just Get It Done Quilts and she has also helped me tremendously with these and other accuracy issues. Finally, I still use a 1/4" foot but mostly rely on it only when sewing on each side of a drawn center diagonal, a la HSTs, since this trick works not-at-all for that technique.
Thanks for the input - I already made a Part 2 video that included some of your suggestions that I took from comments made by other viewers. Here's the link if you'd like to take a look: ruclips.net/video/xYL3LhiXB2k/видео.html
OMG ❤! I am soooo glad to find someone that agrees to “NO SCANT 1/4” seam” 😊. I’ve been quilting since 1979, and all the quilted I’ve seen (used and washed many times). The main 2 areas of wear on a quilt, in all the ones I’ve seen are: (1) the binding and the seam stitching coming out, and/or the fabric shredding at the seams.
Thank you. I just finished month (block) two of a Block of the Month quilt (my first quilt) and each time I tried measuring and marking my seams for the elusive 1/4 inch seam. Some were right on, some wonky and I had marked my machine with a single layer of painter's tape. The finished size of block one was close to correct, but block two was off by over 1/2 an inch. I am SO GRATEFUL for your video. I will do exactly as you showed and make test squares. I had never considered that the thread size and fabric foldover would make a difference. Genius. Helpful. I will subscribe to your channel and look for more tips as I learn this craft!
I so agree about that scant term. I take a slightly different approach in that I refer to a "consistent" seam width based on sewing with the edge of the pieces being lined up with the edge of the 1/4" foot. Yes the blocks may end up being slightly smaller but if all the blocks are roughly the same size who will know when the blocks are joined, quilted and washed? I hate to see newbies being stressed about starching ( another bet noir of mine!) perfect points, perfect sized blocks etc etc, Quilting is about the enjoyment of selecting fabrics , pattern and creating an end product that you are proud to give to some one or use in your home, It is NOT about perfection. Even when I was teaching it was achieving an end product that looked good that was my aim. I've noticed when you show off your work non quilters are just amazed by what we have made and so many forget that. They are their own worse enemies in stressing over perfection in my opinion. Rant over !
Thanks for your input Maureen! We all have those things that are most important to us when quilting and there are no “right answers” when it comes to the enjoyment we receive when we make a quilt. The purpose of my channel is to offer my solutions to issues I have encountered as a new quilter as well as those I have dealt with as a quilting instructor. Of course, there are many ways to accomplish the same task and that’s the beauty of having a forum to share.e. Thank you for watching!
It sounds like you are able to work with the term "scant" to get your accurate finished pieces and you do not need the information provided in this video. However for someone who is new to quilting, and even to some more experienced quilters, the word "scant" is an unmeasurable term that has caused them frustration and discouragement when quilting. You may not need help creating accurate seams, but there are those who do, and that is why I created this video.
First of all, I never mentioned that I was the FIRST PERSON to EVER put painter's tape on my sewing machine. There are many, many quilters and teachers who already know this trick, and have shared it, but there are many who are struggling with the term "scant" and it has caused them discouragement and frustration with the quilting process. We don't want to drive quilters away - we want to welcome them into our community and I try to do my best to help them understand the process without that angst. As I said in my video - it's the TERM "SCANT" that is unmeasurable and confusing and the video was created to help those who are intimidated with the term to get an accurate seam. Hope that helps you understand where I'm coming from. Thanks for watching.
So what is a "scant"? It's an unmeasurable term. My "scant" may be different from your "scant", but my finished measurement for my block and your finished measurement for the same block can be EXACTLY the same if sewn properly. As I said in the video - scant is a term that is difficult for many quilters to grasp and it can discourage and defeat new quilters when they just can't get their blocks to measure correctly using this term as their guide. Rather than using a term that has no definitive measurement attached to it, I would rather show quilters how to create a block that finishes perfectly and skip the use of a term that can be so confusing. If you want to use the term "scant", by all means - use it - it is truly your choice.
I have been sewing on and off since I was in high school and I've done a lot more sewing within the past 5 years. I never once was taught "of" the 2.5 squares adding up to 4.5 inches, to check for accuracy. I was just taught sewing stuff, from home economics. I have a quarter inch foot (don't use it) and the painters tape hack. What I'm mind blown about, the best here, is taking the 2.5 squares and "adding them up" to 4.5 inches to double check my quarter inch mark on my machine with painters tape. This is so genius, THANK YOU so much.
Instead of worrying about a scant 1/4 inch seam, if you are consistent with 1/4 inch, no one will ever know. The “quilt police” will not be taking your quilt apart to measure! What ding dong came up with “scant 1/4 inch anyway, and why do so many quilters subscribe to that nonsense…
The most important point you make is at the very beginning when you say you do this checking every time you start to sew. Whether one uses painters tape, a seam guide, or a special foot, it's worthwhile doing a test with the fabric and thread you'll actually be using. Different fabrics and threads can make a difference in how .much space the seam takes up.
Great tip. I already had my 1/4 marked with painters tape, but never thought about stacking it up to give a little edge. I have tried many different seam guides, magnetic, stick on etc. they always seem to get in the way of my right hand. I usually get frustrated with them and sew with just a single layer of tape. I'm definitely going to try your idea. Thanks Mary.
On this note I have to disagree with this woman. As a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, a 1/4" seam is for an inside non stress seam allowance or for an I closed seam. This woman is talking home sewing not professional sewing.
I'm the "woman" in the video and I'm a quilter, not a fashion designer. We live in 2 totally different sewing worlds. Quilters use 1/4" seam allowances for 99.9% of our seams. Not sure where you got the impression that I am referring to professional sewing or Fashion Design. Quilting is in a totally different league when it comes to the general category of sewing. However, if you'd like to learn more about quilting, I have a great course called "Beginning Quilting from Novice to Confident Beginner" that may be of interest to you. It not only walks you through the process of how quilts are constructed, but it also includes quilting history, the therapeutic benefits of quilting, and quilting tips and tools used when quilting. Hope that clears things up.
Thank you so much for bring this out in the open. I have always had so much trouble with my squares not coming out to the full with. It has driven me bonkers trying to figure out what I was doing wrong. Thank you thank you thank you!
You are so welcome!! I can't tell you how much I appreciate your comment and how glad I am that this helped you. Thanks so much for watching and commenting!
The magnetic seam guides do not always stay in place, depending on your sewing machine. Also, for some machines it is recommended that you do not use the magnetic seam guides. I'm glad this method works for you however. Thanks for sharing this option!
I understand what you're saying about these blocks and agree. However, I have found that the scant seam is the only way for me to be successful when making half-square triangles or stitch and flip corners.
Putting the needle just to the right IS sewing a "scant" seam. It means to do what you showed and not sew exactly on the line. This applies to using a 1/4 inch foot as well. The tape is an unnecessary complexity vs the proper foot.
As I've said previously, my issue is not with the seam itself - it's with the confusing and unmeasurable term "scant". A "proper foot" does not always give you the "proper accurate measurement" no matter how expensive our machines are. The fabrics and the threads we use all come into play when we're sewing our seams and they can easily take away from the accuracy of our seams. I have taught quilting for many years and as much as for some a scant is on click, or one thread, for new quilters this does not compute as they begin to tackle quilting and the precision that' involved. In the end we all want an accurate finished piece, but when we throw unmeasureable terms such as "scant" into the way we achieve that accuracy, it can be confusing. That was the point of my video explanation.
Thanks for the explanation. Now I understand why my blocks are always off and don’t measure correctly. I didn’t realize I was losing the measurement to fold at the seam too. 💕
I just cut deeper into the painters tape for several layers at once. The rolls designated to my area anyways so who cares. I also cut the section over the bobbin case separately after sectioning the layers off the roll. This way the bobbin can be removed without removing the tape and resetting it all up because it won't need to be removed from the bobbin case lid. Hope this makes sense. When it doesn't stick anymore because I've removed it for other projects and stuck it under the wheel of my machine for storage, I use a straight pin on one corner and just remove one layer. Waahlaa... brand new once again. I have also cut the 1 inch roll down the middle and used the straight edge for the fabric side. Extra 1/2 inch for another machine or ready when needed again. Old school works for me and painters tape is cheap. I do still square up cuz no one's perfect even with these methods. Quilts flow together so easily, I'm onto the next project without alot of hassle. Thanks for all your tips, fun to watch and see all the comments. Babs near Tombstone, AZ
I was a Production Patternmaker in the garment industry for many years. My sewers would cut through the roll tape as thick as he needed, all at once with the painters tape. Most if the time, he would use about 1/8” thickness. Cut the tape with a sharp blade. He would use the tape as a wall, as Mary is speaking a about, but You do not have to take off each each layer of tape and line them up. ❤
That's not at all what I was saying. If you watch the video at 1:39 I say that when I sewed my seam "Yes, it's a 1/4" seam." At 2:16 I say that you absolutely can sew an accurate 1/4" seam using the foot or the marking on your sewing machine.
I don't piece blocks very often but when I do I really don't worry about whether the seams are 1/4" or 5/8". As long as I am cutting and sewing all the blocks consistently the pattern will work out - perhaps slightly smaller or larger intended but who cares? The blocks will be square because I'm using the same seam allowance for all seams. The only time it is critical to make the 1/4" seam is when my blocks are being combined with someone else's; obviously they all have to be the same size.
That works if all of the pieces are the same. If you are sewing together two 2.5" squares and they end up less than 4.5" when sewn together, and then try to match them to a 2.5" x 4.5" rectangle, they will not match. This is especially critical when sewing blocks such as an Irish Chain type block. It's impossible to put together a puzzle if the pieces are different sizes. The same is true when quilting with various sized pieces that need to come together to create a block. Thanks for watching.
There was a suggestion to cut the tape with an exacto knife or some type of cutter, right at the edge of the bobbin case, once the tape has been positioned. That way everything is still lined up but you can remove the bobbin case without moving the tape. Hope that helps!
Not at all - it just depends on the 1/4" foot. I have tried a generic 1/4" foot as well as those that came with my machine and they have varied in accuracy which is why I prefer marking with tape. I will be doing another video on the subject to clear up that very issue. Thanks for watching!
I press the quarter inch button on my old Viking D1 and that’s all I do. I don’t do any mucking around with measuring seams allowances etc. consistency is what matters
I"ve commented on this before...that works fine if all of your pieces are the same size. If you have triangles and rectangles and squares and are trying to put those together, you need an accurate 1/4" seam allowance or the puzzle pieces just don't fit. Thanks for watching!
Actually I don't have to redo the process every time I change the bobbin. I carefully remove the bobbin case lid and if the tape lifts a bit, it has enought "stickiness" still on it so that I can just smooth it back in place and it will stick for several bobbin changes. I think it's worth it.
Yes - that is an option, but not all machines have that capability and for those that do, everyone's "notch" is not the same. That can be confusing. I'm sure there are many methods that work - this is just one option. Thanks for watching!
Exactly - scant is an arbitrary word (not a measurement) used to mean "a little less". It's not the same as an accurate "the same every time" 1/4". Thanks for watching!
Since the term "scant" is an unmeasurable term, what's "scant" for one person, is either too much or too little for another depending on their fabric thickness and thread weight. Some machines have a button that moves the needle slightly in one direction or the other. If your machine has this feature, it can help you create an accurate piece after moving the needle and testing the width of the finished piece until you get it right for the project you are working on. It works well, but not all machines have that feature.
I never got what all the fuss is about with the painter's tape and all that. I just screw on a seam guide to exactly where I want it, and every single seam comes out the same every single time.
Just watched your video and want to say thank you. I don't do a lot of quilting so have never heard the term "scant 1/4in seam. We do a group quilt every year and raffle it off for charity. The lady that organises it all quite often comments that some of our pieces are not being sewn at the correct measurements. Your video has now explained why and how to solve it. 😊
So glad it was helpful! Good luck with your projects! Just a little tweak with the seams and you'll be amazed at how the blocks will come together! Thanks for watching!
Thanks for this discussion. I've been saying the same thing for the seven years I've been quilting. It's "received knowledge" and just not helpful. I want my units to end up the right size. Imprecise terms just aren't helpful and border on old wives' tales because they persist despite the facts.
Thank you so much Michele! I can't tell you how MUCH I agree with you! Just because "that's the way it's always been done" doesn't mean that there may not be a better or more efficient or more accurate way around the corner. Thank you again for your comment and for watching!
To me, using the new term of "scant quarter inch seam allowance" infers that there are two types of quarter inch seam. But the truth is there is only one accurate seam allowance and this video shows everyone how to get an "accurate quarter inch seam" on any machine every time. And I thank her for maling it!
I guess I’m a real quilt rebel. I started making my seams 3/8 inch about ten years ago, and It simplified the whole business for me😊
Painters tape stacking can be fussy so I use self adhesive Velcro…the soft side not the loop side. The height of the Velcro is perfect to create a lip…and the adhesive I have found lasts longer than painters tape even reapplying it many times after changing a bobbin. To make the Velcro easier to grab I turn the very edge under (width closest to me). When I’m paper piecing I just take it off and stick it out of the way on the top of my machine. All other procedures are as Mary described in this video!
So happy you are an "accurate 1/4" seam" quilter also!!! BRAVO and thanks so much for sharing your system!
Interesting...I may try that.
That's a great idea 💡 👍 😀
Thank you l am going to try the velcro :)
Excellent idea but I think the manufacturers of the machines need to be accurate with their seam guides and feet.
After lots of frustration for years, I finally took the ruler I use for cutting my fabric and measured like you did. Some people cut measuring in front of the line, some on, and some behind the line. I used where I cut in front of the line and went over two thread widths. I was thrilled. I sew most of blocks without pinning. I have had great results. I love the painters tape. It helps so much. I sewed with residents of a nursing home, some of whom had physical difficulties, but with the painters tape they were able to guide the fabric and got wonderful results. Thank you for spreading the word. This will help the frustration level of so many other quilters. I can say from experience that it works.
Great information! Thanks so much for sharing!
This was very helpful to me. The first time I made a quilt that called for a scant seam, I had no idea what that was. So instead of researching, I figured it meant not quite 1/4” and went for it. The queen size quilt was very intricate, and a gift I was very excited to give. Well, I washed it and so many of my scant seams were “too scant” and came apart! I was devastated. I ended up patching them together by hand. I was not proud to gift it, but I did. I wish I had seen this video before I made that quilt! Thank you!
Thank you so much! That's exactly what I mean when it comes to the term "scant". It's unmeasurable - and I refuse to use it. Thank you for your comment! It's truly appreciated, Kim!
I’ve used painter’s tape, but frequently had difficulty getting the edges of the tape even. Thanks so much for your tip of trimming the tape. Thot will be so much easier than fiddling with it.
Use an old Rotary Blade - I keep an old blade that can no longer be used for fabric - in a cutter that's specifically for paper and tape. Works well! Thanks for watching!
Another way to make the painters tape edge even is to use an exacto knife and cut a chunk of the tape several layers thick off of the roll instead of unrolling it
Excellent tutorial. Learn something new every day!
And yes! And I *do not* utilize scant quarter inch seams. A quarter inch in from the end of the fabric is "slight as it is," why sew *weakness* into your masterpiece only to have it rip later. Doesn't make sense to me!
...interesting, this makes so much sense!!!!: This absolutely explains why I don't like "scant seams!"
Thanks so much for your comments and for watching!
Thank you Mary, I use my ruler and adjust the needle position to get as close to a 1/4 inch seam. Always test sew and measure the seam but have never checked the finished piece. I will definitely get me some painters tape😂 thank you for sharing your knowledge! I greatly appreciate it.🇦🇺
You'e so welcome!!! Thanks so much for watching and for commenting!
Definitely, I use your method and move the needle over one bump to the left and I get my perfect quarter inch seam! 😉
Great information and I could really see what you were doing! Awesome camera angles!
Thanks so much for watching and for commenting!
This is the best video for new quilters when sewing their seams. You did a great job! I am able to get an accurate seam with my edge 1/4" foot and needle position, but many do not have the ability to move their needle. However, I loved your video. It can be used for any size seam.
Thank you so much for your comment! Yes - I absolutely agree - the needle positioning option on a machine is the best option. But this is helpful for those without that option. Thank you for watching!
@@joyfulandmerryquilting I not only watched, but subscribed. Thanks again!
I have the same Janome machine as you, and I love it, but the 1/4" foot caused me a lot of pain at first. My pieces were inaccurate because the seams were too large. "Scant" was difficul to judge. Eventually I purchased the purple vinyl Qtool Sewing Edge, which works just like your masking tape. It's moveable and reusable, and works better than my 1/4" foot. I wish janome would make a "scant-1/4" foot. I make a 10" postage stamp block from 1.5" scraps of each quilt I make. My earliest ones are 1/4" to 1/2" too small because of the problem you discuss. Thank you for helping new quilters resolve this problem.
That is GREAT information! Thank you - I will check it out. I see that it's made by Marci Baker and I love her products. I have ordered it and will give it a try!
Thanks again and thanks for watching!
@@joyfulandmerryquilting If you haven't discovered it yet, here's the title of the video lake8836 is talking about; it gives clear instructions on how to use this great tool to accomplish an accurate scant or 1/4 inch seam: "Why and How to Sew With a Scant 1/4" Quilt Seam, Marci Baker of Alicia's Attic". And here's another YT video that you may appreciate: "What is a 1/4" and a Scant 1/4" Seam Allowance?" that made ME understand the "why" of a scant 1/4 inch seam.
Thank you very much.
I’m not a quilter but I still appreciate learning how to be more efficient with sewing.
You are so welcome!
Thank you. Finally got the quarter inch seam sorted! I am in Australia and have been trying to get it for ages. Very easy to understand.
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
Awesome-thank you Mary!
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
i move my needle to the right so i can take advantage of both feed dogs. then i follow your method from there. my tape ends up going all the way up past the needle just to the right of the feed dogs.
Thanks for watching!
Thank you so much! I’m usually struggling with that!
You're welcome - it's a common issue and trying to figure out how to accurately sew a "scant" seam can be overwhelming! Thanks for watching.
You’d think that by now manufacturers would put a scant 1/4 inch seam mark on the throat plate of all sewing machines. I guess that’s too much to ask, though. But, thank you for the demonstration. I’m getting ready to start a new quilt and I will definitely use this method.
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
This is click bait! You showed how to make a scant quarter inch seam. It's all semantics .
This has nothing to do with semantics. Scant is an unmeasurable term and I believe should NOT be used when quilting. It is confusing and has discouraged many new quilters simply because, in a hobby that is based on precise measurements, there is no numerical value to "scant". Whether or not the word has been used in quilting over the years, it needs to stop. We do NOT sew scant - we sew to create accurate pieces in the end. I'm guessing this video was not something was beneficial to you, but there have been thousands who have appreciated my explanation. Saying that, it's obviously NOT click bait, but rather helpful.
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Mary I pin so how do you use the painters tape with pins? I’ve tried tape but get frustrated trying to use pins. Couldn’t figure out how to get around that.
I really don't have a problem with pins. I tape all the way down the front of my machine so the pins farther down the piece don't get caught in the tape (if I'm sewing a long strip). Otherwise, I'm careful to remove pins or keep them out of the way as I'm sewing and really don't have a problem with it. Hope that helps!
I have found a hat as long as my seam allowances with a quilt are all the same, even if a little more than quarter inch, it all works out just fine.
Thanks for watching.
Best answer! I absolutely agree. All my piecing seam allowances are the same size. Therefore, everything fits together perfectly.
I gave up quilting because of "scant" 1/4 inch. This is a much better way. Thank you.
You're so welcome! I find it's so much easier than wrestling with "scant".
I just move my needle over a bit. Works great and so much easier than all this fuss.
If your machine allows for that, moving the needle can definitely help! I personally like having a guide on the right to ensure I'm sewing straight. It’s not really about "fuss," but more about finding what helps with accuracy. You’re welcome to do whatever works best for you, and it sounds like you’ve got it down! Thanks for watching!
Question: what about a scant 1/4 for stuff animals?? Thanks
I'm sorry - I don't do any other type of sewing other than quilts, so I don't have an answer to your question.
I always ude mole skin instead of the blue tape.
Whatever works for you is absolute fine! Thanks for sharing and for watching!
On my big Brother, I can just reposition the needle in .5mm increments. But on my Elna, I have to do something similar with post-it notes.
That's a great option if you have a machine that has that capability. But yes - for quilters are using machines that are older, or those without all the bells and whistles - and for me, this is a great way to remedy the issue when it comes to accurate seams. Thanks for watching!
You're still sewing a scant quarter inch seam--just doing it with a different technique--which I will try!
My point is the word "scant" is confusing to new quilters and many experienced quilters and I have decided not to use it in my teaching. If you prefer to call it scant, that's certainly up to you. My hope with the video is to simply demonstrate how to position the tape to give you an accurate finished block.
I suppose if one is sewing scraps of different sizes then the quarter inch seam does not cause much problem.
Yes - some projects need more accuracy than others. Thanks for watching!
Do you think it’s necessary to do foundation piecing on this simple block? It’s so time consuming
This simple square-in-a-square block was used for easy video demonstration purposes when foundation piecing. The purpose of the video was to show the basic steps for foundation piecing for those who were not familiar with the process - how to use the perforating blade to mark the sewing lines, how to fold the paper, position the pieces, trim the 1/4" seam allowance and then sew on the wrong side of the paper. Yes - the FPP process is most handy for more complicated blocks, but it's just easier for me to teach the process for FPP using the simple block. Thanks for watching!
How do you do HSTs
If you're talking about sewing on a diagonal line or sewing 1/4" on either side of a diagonal line, I don't find that the tape gets in the way, but rather helps me stay on track. My presser foot slides along the side of the tape as I'm sewing on the diagonal line. When I'm sewing 1/4" on either side of the line, I can't use the tape as a guide because I can't see it - and I usually make many HSTs at one time, so i simply remove the tape and replace it when I'm finished. The tape still has some "stickiness" left and I find I can remove it several times before I need to replace it. Works for me! :-)
I just move my needle position over to the right to achieve that scant 1/4 inch seam every time.
I'm glad your machine has that capability. That's the best option, however not all machines have that capability. Thanks so much for watching!
You said at the end of the video that you have sewn a perfect quarter inch seam. And you said it twice. But you did not sew a quarter inch seam. It was a scant quarter inch seam
The finished piece is a perfect 4 1/2", so I believe my seam was "perfect'. The purpose of the video was to show that the seam that was sewn is not a "scant" seam simply because we don't actually know what the measurement for "scant" is. There is no numerical measurement for the term "scant" and too many quilters have ruined their finished pieces by sewing "too scant" or "not scant enough". But if you follow the instructions in the video, you will sew a perfect seam that will give you a perfect piece in the end.
Remember this: the thread is part of the seam. Measure accordingly.
My point exactly. Thanks for watching!
❤
Thanks for watching!
I never use "scant," quilts were meant to be loved on and washed...Coming from a sewing background using 5/8" on garments, it never made sense to use a scant! Thanks.
You're welcome! Thanks for sharing!
You can also cut the fabric a "SCANT" 😉 larger and trim it to the correct end size. Which is actually, a better technique for ALL your pieces.
I do prefer to trim back when I'm sewing individual pieces together, but when you're sewing a more complex block with many seams and intersections, over-sizing - even if it's just a "scant" is not always an option. Thanks for watching!
I love this idea, especially stacking the tape so that the fabric has something to follow. Thanks for sharing your great tip!
That's not so easy if you use an Accuquilt cutter. My hands don't have the strength to cut that many pieces. I can fussy cut a few, but not bunches of blocks or shapes anymore. Plus, that's a lot more figuring to get the measurements correct. If it becomes a math project, it's not fun for me anymore.
I have made about 2 or3 hundred quilts in the 64 years of quilting. I believe there are to much concern about 1/4” seams. Just keep your seams the same throughout. More concern should be on cutting the parts on the proper grain. When sewing across grain like diamonds the grain will stretch.
Thanks for sharing, Faye! It sounds like you have a lot of "hands on" quilting experience. Unfortunately, I have found that it's not always possible to simply sew with consistent seams that are not an accurate 1/4", and then get a perfect block in the end. If all of your pieces are the same size, that will work, but if you are adding larger and smaller pieces to the mix, the tiny amount that "one" is off as compared to another solid piece that is cut to size - they will just not fit together. But, again, with your years of experience, I'm sure you have perfected your piecing. Thanks again for your input!
Amen to that ❤
@@joyfulandmerryquilting So true. That's why test blocks help with no more tears quilting.
But this still a scant 1/4"...just a different method of achieving it.
The point is that many quilters, especially new quilters, are intimidated by the word "scant". It's too subjective and they find themselves guessing where to take their next stitch (which is not always accurate). I choose to ignore the word "scant" as I said in the video, and just create an accurate seam with measuring the final piece rather than trying to figure out where to place my needle when I sew a seam. Tomato-tomahto! Thanks for watching!
It's still a scant...even if YOU don't like the term, lol. Don't confuse new Quilters even more... and don't click bait. That's just not nice.
Came here to say this
Gosh this is so helpful. I hate "scant" this is more to the point!! Great job Mary and thank you.
@@joyfulandmerryquilting This video is misleading because you’re still positioning the tape for a scant 1/4 inch seam. You try to make it sound like sewing a scant 1/4” seam isn’t necessary to achieve accuracy if they just follow “your method,” which isn’t yours at all. Using stacked painters tape (or Post-It notes or a magnetic seam guide, etc.) has been around since before I was born (I’m 73). My mother secured a small block of wood to the bed of her old Singer machine to use as a seam guide.
The scant 1/4” seam allows for the “turn-of-cloth,” which is the proper sewing term for that measurement difference that occurs when a layer of fabric is turned over a stitched seam for proper positioning. It originated in garment sewing for areas like lapels and collars, for example.
This is a good DIY, but it is a bit fussy. There are several products out there that do this exact same thing. All very helpful to get a good scant seam allowance. However, learning to sew a scant seam allowance is an important skill to have as a quilter/seamstress because the tape method does not work for every situation, for example diagonal or stitch and flip piecing. PS your title says never sew a scant 1/4” seam…. but what you demonstrated was how to sew a scant 1/4” seam 😂
My point is that "scant" is a confusing, unmeasurable term and I don't use it when I am piecing or teaching. There is a follow-up video that answers some of the points you brought up. ruclips.net/video/xYL3LhiXB2k/видео.html Thanks for watching.
This is click bait!
You state never use a scant 1/4 inch seam, and then go on to describe how you get your scant 1/4 inch seam ! SMH!
I'm sorry, but I don't agree with this being "CLICK BAIT". I believe I have explained in the video, my issue is with the word "scant" and why I say NO to using the term "scant" when referring to seams. SCANT is a non-measurable term. Every explanation on how to achieve a "scant" seam has a different place to position your needle or a different method of trying to make your seam "scant". I would rather have an accurate finished piece in the end and that is what this video is about. If you want to call my finished seams (which give me an accurate finished block) "Scant" you're welcome to do so, but I prefer to call them accurate. As a teacher, I have found over and over and over again that the term "Scant" is a confusing word to quilters (new, intermediate, and experienced). In classes, I have tried to explain it, show it, demonstrate it, etc. but in a quilting world where precision is stressed in order for the "puzzle pieces to fit together", an unmeasurable term such as "scant" just doesn't make sense to me. But If it is a term you're comfortable using, then by all means, use it. Also SMH! :-)
Your lead in is really confusing. We have enough of that without it in the quilt world.
If you're addressing the beginning of the video, I'm referring to the term "Scant" and why I don't use it. If you watch the video, you can see that as a quilting teacher I have had many new quilters who have been very discouraged when trying to create a "scant" seam. What they actually need is an accurate seam and "scant" confuses them. That's what I explain. If you watch the entire video, I believe I have explained that term in an easy and non-threatening way. Sorry you were confused.
I started using this method when I started quilting over 30 years ago. I quickly determined that the quarter inch guide or foot were not accurate. Plus I needed a guide for my fabric to follow. I wanted to speed sew and I wanted the "rail" for my fabric to follow. The wool pressing mat made the difference for flatter seams and accuracy. I used a magnetic seam guide once but the vibration of the machine moved it. My machine had a plastic bobbin cover so it works best with all metal. The sticky tape works best for me.
Thank you for your input! Sounds like you agree that an accurate 1/4" seam is the way to go! Thanks for watching!
If you notice where she put it, it actually was a scant 1/4". Which is just a thread's distance shorter than a true 1/4" seem.
Also, not so on yep squares but if she had seen 3 or more and checked that's when it really starts show a difference.
I'm not sure I understand what you're saying in the second part of your comment, but as for the term "scant", my whole point is threads vary in width and the term "scant" is an unmeasurable term. I also have a follow-up video if you'd like to take a look. www.youtube.com/@joyfulandmerryquilting/videos
Still ends up a scant 1/4". It's math.
That's exactly why I don't use the term "scant". Math doesn't use "unmeasurable terms" when it comes to quilting. You can say "scant" but there is absolutely NO numerical value attached to it which makes it so difficult for new quilters (and many more experienced quilters). I believe that just because an arbitrary term has been used to describe something mathematical over the years, that doesn't mean there isn't a better way to phrase it. i do thank you for watching and thank you for your opinion.
"Scant" is NOT a measurable term and when we quilt we use rulers, numbers, and measurements. If you want to use the term, you're certainly welcome to do so.
I think this proves the point that to get “just the right size”, or an accurate measurement of the sewn fabric pieces, the “scant” quarter inch seam needs to be …properly “scant”! (“Scant”, btw, means just barely “less than”)
As I have said in many of the previous comments - we'll just have to agree to disagree. When quilting, we use precise measurements. The term "scant" has been proven to be very imprecise with quilters of all levels of experience, struggling to figure out what "just barely" or "less than" means. Although your definition appears to be very straightforward by many quilters, I have heard from way too many quilters who struggle with the term, finding "scant" to be very difficult to translate into a measureable term - which is why I created the video. Thanks for watching.
Thank you Mary for this helpful video. In the Shabby Fabric videos a special thick stackable tape is always used. However, they do not demonstraight how to measure and place the tape as you did. You did an excellent job showing how to.
Since one of my quarter inch feet for straight stitch has an opening on the 1/4 inch blade itself I just wrapped 3 layers of blue tape on it and it gave me the exact measurement. This makes it possible to change the foot for other pieces that doesn't require 1/4 inch foot and when I need to remove the bobbin. Thank you again. I'll be sure to share this videos with the quilting girls. 😊
Thank you so much! And that's a great suggestion for your 1/4 foot! Thank you for sharing!
Why the dramatics?
You created a scant 1/4” seam as soon as you positioned the needle to the right of the 1/4” line on your ruler.
An ‘accurate’ 1/4” seam would measure exactly 1/4” from the edge of the fabric to the line of stitching before the seam was pressed-either open or to one side.
I think your opening sentence "Why the dramatics?" makes me think you're probably not going to be open to my explanation, but I'll try anyway. It appears we're both looking at this in two different ways - and that's where the confusion is, especially for new quilters. You obviously are able to work with the term "scant" and have no trouble creating accurate blocks as a result, but there are many (including myself) who just aren't comfortable with the term "scant" and for many the uneven and inaccurate blocks created as a result of NOT sewing a "scant" seam correctly can be overwhelming and discouraging. My point is, the term "scant" is unmeasurable. From my experience as a quilting teacher, when a new quilter (or even an experienced quilter at times) is told to sew a "scant" 1/4" seam, the term "scant" is so confusing. I would rather help them achieve a perfect result rather than try to help them figure out what constitutes a scant seam when it just isn't making sense to them. Believe me, I have taught enough classes to know this IS an issue. It appears that scant is a term that you do not struggle with, so this video is probably not something that would benefit you. For those who DO struggle with the term (and there are MANY from my experience), marking the machine as I have described, is helpful. You're certainly welcome to use the term "scant". Again - my opinion - you're welcome to yours.
@@joyfulandmerryquilting I DO see your viewpoint. As you say, both methods result in an accurate ‘unit’ or ‘block’. However, your method is limited to straight seams.
To Wit:
Two novice quilters are constructing a simple beginner block such as a 4-or-9 patch.
They then decide to try something a little more challenging, such as a snowballed square/rectangle or a flying geese unit. The quilter who was taught the scant 1/4-‘next to the line’-method can now simply apply that method to a diagonal seam. One concept applied to more than one situation.
As for dramatics, your click bait title, ‘you should NEVER’ the ‘BOO!’, and the ‘scant spell that has taken over the quilting community’ can hardly be called anything but dramatic. As for that ‘spell’-as you call it-has ‘taken over the quilting community’ is a technique taught by experts for years. Its longevity is a testimony to its effectiveness.
We'll have to agree to disagree. Just because an unmeasureable term has been around since the beginning of time doesn't mean we can't come up with a process to achieve an accurate result that is more definitive and accurate.
This is a click bait video, showing one possible method for achieving a scant quarter inch seam, all the while disparaging the term “scant quarter inch seam”. It is a really nice method for achieving a scant quarter inch seam though.
So, how much is a scant since you found this video is a nice method for achieving the measurment of "scant"? A little more, a little less, a little more than less??? I find that very confusing - as do many of my students as well as even more experienced quilters. Scant is an unmeasurable term - my finished piece is an accurate measurement. BTW - click bait is clicking on something that does not deliver on the topic. As my title states - I always say no to SCANT - always. No click bait there, just my honest truth. I did make a follow-up to this video based on the positive, constructive and kind suggestions made to this video if you're interested...I promise...no click bait...just helpful hints. ruclips.net/video/xYL3LhiXB2k/видео.html Thanks for watching!
Well, yes, but you must be sewing a scant 1/4" in order to get that result. I get it - don't have angst over the term but what you did was mark the scant 1/4" seam.
I'm glad this isn't an issue for you, but for others (especially new quilters) this unmeasurable term has caused them difficulty. How much is a scant? A little, a little more, a little less... If we quit using the term and just sew a seam that gives us an accurate piece in the end - we're good to go! Thanks for watching and for commenting!
Kind of a click-bait title... a more honest title would have been Don't let "SCANT" scare you...or even "How to easily find your perfect quarter inch seam". Your point is that you may need to sew a scant in some situations and here's an easy way to figure out what that is each time. You provided great information but the set-up was so misleading I ended up feeling annoyed. If I had seen this video when I first started I think it would have really confused me. For better or worse, "scant" is the term everyone uses so new quilters need to learn what it means.
Sorry I annoyed you, but I am passionate about this topic and the term SCANT really annoys me - so I guess we're even there. :-) To clarify, "Click bait" means the topic has NOTHING to do with the actual video once you "click on it"...but I believe this title is "spot on"! I NEVER use the term and never call my seams "scant"...ever. Scant DOES scare a lot of new quilters (and experienced quilters) and I feel this is a great alternative to never using the term again.
TOTALLY click bait!! That's what I said too. 😊
Nothing new here. It is still a scant quarter inch seam. I don’t have a problem with the word.
I'm glad you don't have a problem with the word but for many new quilters (and experienced quilters) this is a confusing an unmeasurable term. I have a follow-up video with some additional information: ruclips.net/video/xYL3LhiXB2k/видео.html
Would a magnetic seam quide work as well as the tape if you followed all the other steps?
I found that the magnetic seam guide did not remain in place with the vibration of the machine. The tape or Marci Baker's Sewing Edge Strips work the best. Here's the link: quiltwithmarcibaker.com/product-category/quilting-tools/
Mary, I agree with your frustration and your approach. I would modify it in small ways and add a bit. I would test with 3 fabric pieces to make sure a slight difference didn't compound. I would NOT put the seam guide across a top bobbin cover without also using an Exacto or box cutter, after positioning, to allow a bobbin change without starting over. Also, I would emphasize an accurate pressing technique and awareness of thread sizes. I saw a comment referencing Karen Brown at Just Get It Done Quilts and she has also helped me tremendously with these and other accuracy issues. Finally, I still use a 1/4" foot but mostly rely on it only when sewing on each side of a drawn center diagonal, a la HSTs, since this trick works not-at-all for that technique.
Thanks for the input - I already made a Part 2 video that included some of your suggestions that I took from comments made by other viewers. Here's the link if you'd like to take a look: ruclips.net/video/xYL3LhiXB2k/видео.html
OMG ❤! I am soooo glad to find someone that agrees to “NO SCANT 1/4” seam” 😊. I’ve been quilting since 1979, and all the quilted I’ve seen (used and washed many times). The main 2 areas of wear on a quilt, in all the ones I’ve seen are: (1) the binding and the seam stitching coming out, and/or the fabric shredding at the seams.
Thank you! That's EXACTLY what I'm talking about here and I'm so glad that you agree! Thanks for watching!
Thank you. I just finished month (block) two of a Block of the Month quilt (my first quilt) and each time I tried measuring and marking my seams for the elusive 1/4 inch seam. Some were right on, some wonky and I had marked my machine with a single layer of painter's tape. The finished size of block one was close to correct, but block two was off by over 1/2 an inch. I am SO GRATEFUL for your video. I will do exactly as you showed and make test squares. I had never considered that the thread size and fabric foldover would make a difference. Genius. Helpful. I will subscribe to your channel and look for more tips as I learn this craft!
Thank you so much for your kind words and for watching! Good luck and feel free to ask any questions you may have - I'm happy to help!
I have a square note pad that I tape a few pages in place. My friend uses post-it note pages. These are other options that work well.
Sounds like you are also an "accurate 1/4" seam quilter" rather than a "scanter"! :-) BRAVO!
I so agree about that scant term. I take a slightly different approach in that I refer to a "consistent" seam width based on sewing with the edge of the pieces being lined up with the edge of the 1/4" foot. Yes the blocks may end up being slightly smaller but if all the blocks are roughly the same size who will know when the blocks are joined, quilted and washed? I hate to see newbies being stressed about starching ( another bet noir of mine!) perfect points, perfect sized blocks etc etc, Quilting is about the enjoyment of selecting fabrics , pattern and creating an end product that you are proud to give to some one or use in your home, It is NOT about perfection. Even when I was teaching it was achieving an end product that looked good that was my aim. I've noticed when you show off your work non quilters are just amazed by what we have made and so many forget that. They are their own worse enemies in stressing over perfection in my opinion. Rant over !
Thanks for your input Maureen! We all have those things that are most important to us when quilting and there are no “right answers” when it comes to the enjoyment we receive when we make a quilt. The purpose of my channel is to offer my solutions to issues I have encountered as a new quilter as well as those I have dealt with as a quilting instructor. Of course, there are many ways to accomplish the same task and that’s the beauty of having a forum to share.e. Thank you for watching!
"Just to the right of the 1/4" marking" IS a scant quarter inch.
It sounds like you are able to work with the term "scant" to get your accurate finished pieces and you do not need the information provided in this video. However for someone who is new to quilting, and even to some more experienced quilters, the word "scant" is an unmeasurable term that has caused them frustration and discouragement when quilting. You may not need help creating accurate seams, but there are those who do, and that is why I created this video.
This is, as others have noted, a scant 1/4” seam, and Karen Brown beat you to the painter’s tape ledge by quite a long time.
First of all, I never mentioned that I was the FIRST PERSON to EVER put painter's tape on my sewing machine. There are many, many quilters and teachers who already know this trick, and have shared it, but there are many who are struggling with the term "scant" and it has caused them discouragement and frustration with the quilting process. We don't want to drive quilters away - we want to welcome them into our community and I try to do my best to help them understand the process without that angst. As I said in my video - it's the TERM "SCANT" that is unmeasurable and confusing and the video was created to help those who are intimidated with the term to get an accurate seam. Hope that helps you understand where I'm coming from. Thanks for watching.
A scant 1/4 “ seam by any other name, is still a scant 1/4” seam.
So what is a "scant"? It's an unmeasurable term. My "scant" may be different from your "scant", but my finished measurement for my block and your finished measurement for the same block can be EXACTLY the same if sewn properly. As I said in the video - scant is a term that is difficult for many quilters to grasp and it can discourage and defeat new quilters when they just can't get their blocks to measure correctly using this term as their guide. Rather than using a term that has no definitive measurement attached to it, I would rather show quilters how to create a block that finishes perfectly and skip the use of a term that can be so confusing. If you want to use the term "scant", by all means - use it - it is truly your choice.
I have been sewing on and off since I was in high school and I've done a lot more sewing within the past 5 years. I never once was taught "of" the 2.5 squares adding up to 4.5 inches, to check for accuracy. I was just taught sewing stuff, from home economics. I have a quarter inch foot (don't use it) and the painters tape hack. What I'm mind blown about, the best here, is taking the 2.5 squares and "adding them up" to 4.5 inches to double check my quarter inch mark on my machine with painters tape. This is so genius, THANK YOU so much.
You're so welcome! I'm so glad it has helped you and I thank you for watching!
Thanks to this, I may FINALLY be able to sew accurate 1/4 inch seams!
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
I just cut the squares bigger and trim to get my block size right.
Yes - I usually oversize where I can as well, but trimming back is not always possible for all blocks and this helps with that issue..
Thank you for this video! I have been struggling with the elusive scant 1/4" for years and now I think I may have been given a lifeline! Thanks!🙂
I'm so glad! Thanks so much for watching!
Thank you for this video. I prefer to measure accurately. The term “scant” is like a “pinch” or a “dollop”. It isn’t measured.
I agree! Thanks for commenting and for watching!
Instead of worrying about a scant 1/4 inch seam, if you are consistent with 1/4 inch, no one will ever know. The “quilt police” will not be taking your quilt apart to measure! What ding dong came up with “scant 1/4 inch anyway, and why do so many quilters subscribe to that nonsense…
Thanks for watching!
Mary B for Brilliant 😁 Thankyou so very much for sharing your great ideas with us. This will bring back more joy to our sewing😘
You're very welcome! Thank you for your kind words!
Thank you so much Mary B!! This is the best video I've found for accurate sewing. I will definitely use your suggestion.
Thank you for your kind words! I truly appreciate it! Good Luck and let me know how it goes or if I can be of help Ginny!
I’m new to quilting and decided to give it a try-your tip was spot on! Thanks so much for sharing it!
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
The most important point you make is at the very beginning when you say you do this checking every time you start to sew. Whether one uses painters tape, a seam guide, or a special foot, it's worthwhile doing a test with the fabric and thread you'll actually be using. Different fabrics and threads can make a difference in how .much space the seam takes up.
Exactly! Thanks so much for the clarification - for me, that is an essental step when I begin a new quilt! Thank you!
Great tip. I already had my 1/4 marked with painters tape, but never thought about stacking it up to give a little edge. I have tried many different seam guides, magnetic, stick on etc. they always seem to get in the way of my right hand. I usually get frustrated with them and sew with just a single layer of tape. I'm definitely going to try your idea. Thanks Mary.
Glad it was helpful! Thanks so much for watching!
On this note I have to disagree with this woman. As a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, a 1/4" seam is for an inside non stress seam allowance or for an I closed seam. This woman is talking home sewing not professional sewing.
I'm the "woman" in the video and I'm a quilter, not a fashion designer. We live in 2 totally different sewing worlds. Quilters use 1/4" seam allowances for 99.9% of our seams. Not sure where you got the impression that I am referring to professional sewing or Fashion Design. Quilting is in a totally different league when it comes to the general category of sewing. However, if you'd like to learn more about quilting, I have a great course called "Beginning Quilting from Novice to Confident Beginner" that may be of interest to you. It not only walks you through the process of how quilts are constructed, but it also includes quilting history, the therapeutic benefits of quilting, and quilting tips and tools used when quilting. Hope that clears things up.
My Juki TL18QVP gives a perfect scant and my blocks come out on spot.
Which foot ?
That's wonderful! Not every machine does that. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much for bring this out in the open. I have always had so much trouble with my squares not coming out to the full with. It has driven me bonkers trying to figure out what I was doing wrong. Thank you thank you thank you!
You are so welcome!! I can't tell you how much I appreciate your comment and how glad I am that this helped you. Thanks so much for watching and commenting!
They need to make the 1/4" foot a scant 1/4" since quilting is what it is for anyway.
Some machines allow you to move your needle to the right or left in short increments which is also a great option for getting the accurate seam.
First 5 minutes of watching and my first observation is - simply use a magnetic seam guide, no need to waste tape.
The magnetic seam guides do not always stay in place, depending on your sewing machine. Also, for some machines it is recommended that you do not use the magnetic seam guides. I'm glad this method works for you however. Thanks for sharing this option!
I understand what you're saying about these blocks and agree. However, I have found that the scant seam is the only way for me to be successful when making half-square triangles or stitch and flip corners.
It's best to do what works for you. Thanks for sharing!
Putting the needle just to the right IS sewing a "scant" seam. It means to do what you showed and not sew exactly on the line. This applies to using a 1/4 inch foot as well. The tape is an unnecessary complexity vs the proper foot.
As I've said previously, my issue is not with the seam itself - it's with the confusing and unmeasurable term "scant". A "proper foot" does not always give you the "proper accurate measurement" no matter how expensive our machines are. The fabrics and the threads we use all come into play when we're sewing our seams and they can easily take away from the accuracy of our seams. I have taught quilting for many years and as much as for some a scant is on click, or one thread, for new quilters this does not compute as they begin to tackle quilting and the precision that' involved. In the end we all want an accurate finished piece, but when we throw unmeasureable terms such as "scant" into the way we achieve that accuracy, it can be confusing. That was the point of my video explanation.
Thank you Mary. I am a new quilter and when I heard the term “scant quarter inch I was very confused. This makes a lot of sense. ❤
It's one of those words that just has such a negative connotation. I prefer accurate! :-) You're welcome and thanks for watching!
Me too ughhh a scant !!!!
Thanks for the explanation. Now I understand why my blocks are always off and don’t measure correctly. I didn’t realize I was losing the measurement to fold at the seam too. 💕
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
I just cut deeper into the painters tape for several layers at once. The rolls designated to my area anyways so who cares. I also cut the section over the bobbin case separately after sectioning the layers off the roll. This way the bobbin can be removed without removing the tape and resetting it all up because it won't need to be removed from the bobbin case lid. Hope this makes sense. When it doesn't stick anymore because I've removed it for other projects and stuck it under the wheel of my machine for storage, I use a straight pin on one corner and just remove one layer. Waahlaa... brand new once again. I have also cut the 1 inch roll down the middle and used the straight edge for the fabric side. Extra 1/2 inch for another machine or ready when needed again.
Old school works for me and painters tape is cheap. I do still square up cuz no one's perfect even with these methods. Quilts flow together so easily, I'm onto the next project without alot of hassle.
Thanks for all your tips, fun to watch and see all the comments.
Babs near Tombstone, AZ
GREAT tips! Thanks so much for your comment Babs! And thanks for watching!
You can use the quarter inch seam presser foot if you shift the needle position one place to the right.
If your machine has that capability, that's a good option.
I was a Production Patternmaker in the garment industry for many years. My sewers would cut through the roll tape as thick as he needed, all at once with the painters tape. Most if the time, he would use about 1/8” thickness. Cut the tape with a sharp blade. He would use the tape as a wall, as Mary is speaking a about, but You do not have to take off each each layer of tape and line them up. ❤
Thanks for the tip! There's always a new way around the corner to approach this issue. I appreciate your comment and thanks for watching!
What you are saying is that the manufacturers of the machines are off on their throat plate seam guide and the 1/4 inch foot.
That's not at all what I was saying. If you watch the video at 1:39 I say that when I sewed my seam "Yes, it's a 1/4" seam." At 2:16 I say that you absolutely can sew an accurate 1/4" seam using the foot or the marking on your sewing machine.
I never fold over when I iron. I iron my.seams open, use a smaller stitch and have more accurate seams
That's totally a personal preference, as I'm sure you know. I'm glad that it works for you! Thanks for watching!
I don't piece blocks very often but when I do I really don't worry about whether the seams are 1/4" or 5/8". As long as I am cutting and sewing all the blocks consistently the pattern will work out - perhaps slightly smaller or larger intended but who cares? The blocks will be square because I'm using the same seam allowance for all seams. The only time it is critical to make the 1/4" seam is when my blocks are being combined with someone else's; obviously they all have to be the same size.
That works if all of the pieces are the same. If you are sewing together two 2.5" squares and they end up less than 4.5" when sewn together, and then try to match them to a 2.5" x 4.5" rectangle, they will not match. This is especially critical when sewing blocks such as an Irish Chain type block. It's impossible to put together a puzzle if the pieces are different sizes. The same is true when quilting with various sized pieces that need to come together to create a block. Thanks for watching.
I will take your word for it, for the simple piecing I do it does not matter. I do mainly foundation piecing and applique.
Well thats great til you have to change your top loading bobbin..then you have to start all over?
There was a suggestion to cut the tape with an exacto knife or some type of cutter, right at the edge of the bobbin case, once the tape has been positioned. That way everything is still lined up but you can remove the bobbin case without moving the tape. Hope that helps!
Is the point then that the quarter inch foot doesn't allow for an accurate quarter inch seam to be made?
Not at all - it just depends on the 1/4" foot. I have tried a generic 1/4" foot as well as those that came with my machine and they have varied in accuracy which is why I prefer marking with tape. I will be doing another video on the subject to clear up that very issue. Thanks for watching!
I press the quarter inch button on my old Viking D1 and that’s all I do. I don’t do any mucking around with measuring seams allowances etc. consistency is what matters
I"ve commented on this before...that works fine if all of your pieces are the same size. If you have triangles and rectangles and squares and are trying to put those together, you need an accurate 1/4" seam allowance or the puzzle pieces just don't fit. Thanks for watching!
I have the same machine, but I like to use the straight stitch throatplate and quilters foot. But then I sew VERY simple quilt tops!
All good until you need to change the bobbin then you have to do the whole process again.
Actually I don't have to redo the process every time I change the bobbin. I carefully remove the bobbin case lid and if the tape lifts a bit, it has enought "stickiness" still on it so that I can just smooth it back in place and it will stick for several bobbin changes. I think it's worth it.
I’ve used moleskin as a guide for years. No layering necessary.
Thanks for sharing!
Why not just move the needle one notch for a perfect scant 1/4” seam.
Yes - that is an option, but not all machines have that capability and for those that do, everyone's "notch" is not the same. That can be confusing. I'm sure there are many methods that work - this is just one option. Thanks for watching!
I too am wondering about bobbin access I did this but changing the bobbin is a pain have to reset the tape
There is a follow-up video that answers your question: ruclips.net/video/xYL3LhiXB2k/видео.html
A scant 1/4” and an accurate 1/4” are not the same thing.
Exactly - scant is an arbitrary word (not a measurement) used to mean "a little less". It's not the same as an accurate "the same every time" 1/4". Thanks for watching!
So why doesn’t sewing machine manufacturers make a scant 1/4 inch foot to avoid all the tricks?
Since the term "scant" is an unmeasurable term, what's "scant" for one person, is either too much or too little for another depending on their fabric thickness and thread weight. Some machines have a button that moves the needle slightly in one direction or the other. If your machine has this feature, it can help you create an accurate piece after moving the needle and testing the width of the finished piece until you get it right for the project you are working on. It works well, but not all machines have that feature.
@@joyfulandmerryquilting I have a Juki so I can’t move my needle.
Thank you. This makes a lot of sense. I don't like a scant seam. 😂
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
I never got what all the fuss is about with the painter's tape and all that. I just screw on a seam guide to exactly where I want it, and every single seam comes out the same every single time.
I'm glad you have a machine with that capability. For others the tape works well. Thanks for watching!
@@joyfulandmerryquilting A seam guide is a simple little gadget you screw on the bed of your machine.
I'll need to try this out on my machine today! Thanks for sharing!
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
Just watched your video and want to say thank you. I don't do a lot of quilting so have never heard the term "scant 1/4in seam. We do a group quilt every year and raffle it off for charity. The lady that organises it all quite often comments that some of our pieces are not being sewn at the correct measurements. Your video has now explained why and how to solve it. 😊
So glad it was helpful! Good luck with your projects! Just a little tweak with the seams and you'll be amazed at how the blocks will come together! Thanks for watching!
I am of the opinion that the seam doesnt need to be scanted, the pattern is to small!
Thanks for the input.
Scant isn’t scientifically measurable.
Yes - that is why I never use the term when measuring seams. Thanks for watching!