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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@elsieelm27637 ай бұрын
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!
@carolblair2845Ай бұрын
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😊
@mrslincoln51187 ай бұрын
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!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
So happy you are an "accurate 1/4" seam" quilter also!!! BRAVO and thanks so much for sharing your system!
@beverlymccracken49537 ай бұрын
Interesting...I may try that.
@MarciaBaker12057 ай бұрын
That's a great idea 💡 👍 😀
@cathyc10797 ай бұрын
Thank you l am going to try the velcro :)
@randidaeger1577 ай бұрын
Excellent idea but I think the manufacturers of the machines need to be accurate with their seam guides and feet.
@joannsanders2427 ай бұрын
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!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@debcavan7 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Great information! Thanks so much for sharing!
@sharonkulick73077 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@nursekate67727 ай бұрын
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
@Do-U-Know-me007 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@evelynwald91327 ай бұрын
I love this idea, especially stacking the tape so that the fabric has something to follow. Thanks for sharing your great tip!
@kathybrigger94317 ай бұрын
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.
@lisarobinette39497 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! I'm so glad it has helped you and I thank you for watching!
@thetangledstring94267 ай бұрын
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!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@eleanorwittering31267 ай бұрын
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!"
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thanks so much for your comments and for watching!
@maureentaphouse52067 ай бұрын
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 !
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@helenjohnstone5477 ай бұрын
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.🇦🇺
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You'e so welcome!!! Thanks so much for watching and for commenting!
@janholman61927 ай бұрын
Definitely, I use your method and move the needle over one bump to the left and I get my perfect quarter inch seam! 😉
@ruthl3597 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roqvZH-enr11aM0
@starrificmom83907 ай бұрын
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. 😊
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thank you so much! And that's a great suggestion for your 1/4 foot! Thank you for sharing!
@SharonGrant-h6fАй бұрын
I’m new to quilting and decided to give it a try-your tip was spot on! Thanks so much for sharing it!
@joyfulandmerryquiltingАй бұрын
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
@b.bailey82445 ай бұрын
Thanks to this, I may FINALLY be able to sew accurate 1/4 inch seams!
@joyfulandmerryquilting5 ай бұрын
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
@elainedavis77027 ай бұрын
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!🙂
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
I'm so glad! Thanks so much for watching!
@helenthornton50747 ай бұрын
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. 😊
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@vernettasoiset30536 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting6 ай бұрын
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
@AugustaDanner7 ай бұрын
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!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@gracewest55047 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@gracewest55047 ай бұрын
@@joyfulandmerryquilting I not only watched, but subscribed. Thanks again!
@chrissyoldfield85667 ай бұрын
Great information and I could really see what you were doing! Awesome camera angles!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thanks so much for watching and for commenting!
@euniceh985127 күн бұрын
Mary B for Brilliant 😁 Thankyou so very much for sharing your great ideas with us. This will bring back more joy to our sewing😘
@joyfulandmerryquilting27 күн бұрын
You're very welcome! Thank you for your kind words!
@amyberg14132 ай бұрын
Awesome-thank you Mary!
@joyfulandmerryquilting2 ай бұрын
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
@lake88367 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@newbeequilter7 ай бұрын
@@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.
@deewinston56517 ай бұрын
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. ❤
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
It's one of those words that just has such a negative connotation. I prefer accurate! :-) You're welcome and thanks for watching!
@Crawford6447 ай бұрын
Me too ughhh a scant !!!!
@MamaWolfof92 ай бұрын
Thank you very much. I’m not a quilter but I still appreciate learning how to be more efficient with sewing.
@joyfulandmerryquilting2 ай бұрын
You are so welcome!
@PYN1115 ай бұрын
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”)
@joyfulandmerryquilting5 ай бұрын
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.
@narellev54113 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting3 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
@fayeburden43317 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@ulimuc67177 ай бұрын
Amen to that ❤
@notesfromleisa-land7 ай бұрын
@@joyfulandmerryquilting So true. That's why test blocks help with no more tears quilting.
@hs87477 ай бұрын
But this still a scant 1/4"...just a different method of achieving it.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@hs87477 ай бұрын
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.
@tippylaroux31377 ай бұрын
Came here to say this
@DB-oz9bb7 ай бұрын
Gosh this is so helpful. I hate "scant" this is more to the point!! Great job Mary and thank you.
@GayleHallAZ7 ай бұрын
@@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.
@ml10497 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Glad it was helpful! Thanks so much for watching!
@kathiehughes50267 ай бұрын
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. 💕
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
@sandrahood9529Ай бұрын
OMG! What a great video. I learned from this video that I was sewing my pieces on right side when I should be using the left. Thanks.
@joyfulandmerryquiltingАй бұрын
Thanks for watching! Glad it had information you can use!
@rachelburgener8197 ай бұрын
Omgoodness Mary I really like your teaching moment; and yes I’m newer to quilting although sewing and crafting my whole life!!! I love it!!! To date I’ve accomplished 3 quilts all as gifts for special people, and 2 have been enjoying their heavenly home🥰. Thank You so much 🥰🙏🏻✝️❤️😀
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome and thank you so much for your kind words and for watching!
@MarciaBaker12057 ай бұрын
I've been a quilter over 30 years & this has been very helpful & not "clickbait" at all. It's a true quarter inch seam in that the patch comes out at 4.5 inches. I've used the things that have the holes to sink the needle into but the holes are too big & I can still slide the needle around in the hole. This is a very good video & I'm sure it can help new & experienced quilters. Disregard the quilt police.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thank you so much Marcia! And I truly appreciate you coming to my rescue! :-) I couldn't agree with you more. As long as the finished size is accurate, the word "scant" means absolutely nothing. It's not a measurable term - it's an arbitrary word used that I believe is quite confusing to new and experienced quilters. I have answered the question in my quilting classes more times than I can count. I've tried to describe "scant", I've tried to demonstrate "scant", and finally I realized the problem was not in my attempts to explain the word, but rather the word itself. Again I appreciate your comment and your support! Thank you - you've made my day!!! And thank you for watching!
@MarciaBaker12057 ай бұрын
@@joyfulandmerryquilting you're very welcome! I'd never been able to get that term so I really do appreciate your expertise! I'm happy I made you happy!
@lizwarnke46897 ай бұрын
I'll need to try this out on my machine today! Thanks for sharing!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
@judywright20516 ай бұрын
This is genius! Thank you so much - I have been struggling with keeping my seams scant and straight!
@joyfulandmerryquilting6 ай бұрын
You're so welcome - there is a follow-up video based on suggestions given by viewers if you're interested: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roqvZH-enr11aM0 Thanks for watching!
@carolmeakins35783 ай бұрын
Great tip. Thank you x
@joyfulandmerryquilting3 ай бұрын
You are so welcome!
@HazelSmith-y4l6 ай бұрын
Hi there. Thanks so much for this video. That really helps and makes a big difference in the overall measurement of the quilt block. 😊
@joyfulandmerryquilting6 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
@chickad58207 ай бұрын
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
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
GREAT tips! Thanks so much for your comment Babs! And thanks for watching!
@jackiepomeroy21917 ай бұрын
Thankyou thankyou thankyou. OMGosh, I just have had that problem and I used the line on the machine and have had the WORST PROBLEM. . Wish I had seen this post prior.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
I'm so glad it's been helpful! Thank you so much for watching!
@Betsyboo18837 ай бұрын
Thank you! ❤
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
@susannaaudia12547 ай бұрын
This is very helpful! It takes the guesswork out of the seam allowance and produces an accurate seam each time. I’m definitely going to try this method! Looking forward to accurately sized blocks 😊
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thank you so much - it really does work! Be sure to watch the follow-up video with a great product that was suggested as a result of this video. Here's the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roqvZH-enr11aM0
@susannaaudia12547 ай бұрын
You’re welcome Mary. I’ll be sure to check it out 😀
@susannaaudia12547 ай бұрын
Great second video! I appreciate how thorough and patient you are in your teaching and feedback. I’ll share that I recently made blocks for a square in square pattern and there’s a lot of variation in my “scant” seams…let’s just say they turned out to be less than the 10 inches square they were supposed to be lol! In the end, I’ll make them work, but I’m definitely looking forward to trying your method as it will be “joyful” and a relief to have consistent seams and accurately sized blocks. Looking forward to checking out your other videos Mary as I really do appreciate your teaching style, thanks again! Susanna
@alishabiljon18237 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing this video. I find it very useful and I use this method as I learnt it from "just get it done quilts"
@alishabiljon18237 ай бұрын
Karen Brown from "Just get it done quilts" has many tips and tricks and has taught me much. I think I am going to enjoy your videos too. Thank you again xxx
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thanks for watching!
@annettestoutjesdyk86417 ай бұрын
Thank you so much! I’m usually struggling with that!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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.
@amandabucci27777 ай бұрын
👏🙌🏼 yes, this is it! I’ve always thought “scant” to be the most imprecise word.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thank you! I absolutely agree!
@leaannebrummett91597 ай бұрын
Great tip on how to achieve a scant quarter inch seam. I also see quilters make pressing mistakes that cause the fabric to stretch or shrink thus ruining their perfectly sewn piecing.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
I agree - the longer we quilt and the more we share what we've learned, the better our finished blocks and quilts become. Thanks for your comment!
@Carriequilts7 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Sounds like you are also an "accurate 1/4" seam quilter" rather than a "scanter"! :-) BRAVO!
@jylromain64397 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
It's best to do what works for you. Thanks for sharing!
@DorisPowell-kx9te7 ай бұрын
well done Mary ☺
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thank you so much!
@kathybrigger94317 ай бұрын
Fantastic. I have used painters tape for years but the fabric can float over it. Then I used a Sharpie. My daughter nearly had a heart attack seeing me put permanent marker on my machine bed. The problem with the marker is, the fabric again can float. The marker comes off easily with alcohol. I do that to my plastic storage containers too. When I empty them, I clean the writing off so they can be used again. Oh duh. This makes total sense to stack the tape. Out of all the things I have done in my life from stained glass, all my kids clothes to high school, wedding gowns, men's suits, car seat covers and head liners, carpenter work, hanging dry wall and other countless things, something as simple as stacking the tape never occurred to me. Sometimes the simplest ideas escape me. I will be using this idea. Thank you so much for sharing.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
@lesliekendall42337 ай бұрын
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. ❤
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@Auntie70247 ай бұрын
Great tutorial!! This is so helpful. Thank you, Mary. ❤😊
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
@OMA-dee7 ай бұрын
I’ve done this with a stack or Post-It notes. Worked great!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Yes! There are many ways to achieve an accurate result! Thanks for sharing!
@trevorbromley-palmer7 ай бұрын
Your description was terrific. I have always wondered how ‘big” is a scant. I will definitely use your ruler and tape method in the future. Thank you 🙏🏻
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thanks so much for watching! I'm so glad it helped and I appreciate your kind words!
@Elkycreates3 ай бұрын
You can use the quarter inch seam presser foot if you shift the needle position one place to the right.
@joyfulandmerryquilting3 ай бұрын
If your machine has that capability, that's a good option.
@patmoore45157 ай бұрын
Love this! Best tip I have seen on this! Thank you! ❤❤❤
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thank you so much! Thanks for watching!
@sandramichaud80336 ай бұрын
I learned something that will help. Thanks about the needle drop to measure the 1/4 in.👍
@joyfulandmerryquilting6 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
@sandramichaud80336 ай бұрын
@@joyfulandmerryquilting I checked my seams as you recommended and I am waaay off. Can’t trust the 1/4 inch foot. Explains why my final 12 inch square doesn’t measure up. Grateful for your tip. 😘
@djstarrjunkie7 ай бұрын
I'd done this similar technique, but I'd used a measured a 1/4" (1" in length) line via a sharpie pen, on top of a small post-it (l=1" x w=.5") then masking tape on top. Several years later, still works great!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing! Sounds like it works well for you!
@veramats7 ай бұрын
I use painters tape too. I stack multiple pieces to make a ledge/guide. If I’m using a machine that is digital, I sometimes just shift the needle over a notch or two to get the seam allowance I need. My most preferred method is to cut the fabrics slightly larger and then after piecing, trim down to the correct size, assuming the style of block lends itself to that method.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
I absolutely agree! Thanks so much for watching and for sharing!
@cr28844 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting4 ай бұрын
Thanks for watching!
@donnanelson91813 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting3 ай бұрын
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
@Coalgirl1007 ай бұрын
Oh yes!have tried everything else, this makes so much sense. thank you ☺
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome!
@daisymarrero67387 ай бұрын
Perfect. I will try it from now on. Thankyou very much.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
@debdietz8337 ай бұрын
Thank you ! Very helpful.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
@marionbarber9845 ай бұрын
Thank you for this tutorial. I've used the tape before but got tired of it. I used the special foot with the blade on it. It works as long as I don't fall asleep while sewing. It's time to go run with scissors. Oh wait. That is for pet peeves.
@joyfulandmerryquilting5 ай бұрын
Thanks for watching and for sharing! :-)
@beverlymccracken49537 ай бұрын
Thank you!!!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! Thank you for watching!
@M-hc9xm4 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting4 ай бұрын
Thanks for watching.
@earthmagic13 ай бұрын
Best answer! I absolutely agree. All my piecing seam allowances are the same size. Therefore, everything fits together perfectly.
@sallysnowball18667 ай бұрын
EXCELLENT! Thank you.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome!
@notesfromleisa-land7 ай бұрын
Thanks for your video. I have a quibble about the quibble on scant v. accurate. A scant seam is just that. It is scant to allow for the thread/fabric. It is not a full 1/4" from edge. An accurate 1/4" seam is a full 1/4" seam which is needed for most blocks that have star points in them. Sewing a scant will cause problems with your points. Accordingly, scant and accurate are two meaningful variations of a modality that gets you to "accurate" for the intended purpose. Small quibble: you state "an accurate 1/4 seam in your vid" which of course flies in the face of your opening salvo! I would also point out that a straight stitch plate helps for consistent results as well as a sharp needle, as distortion occurs. (and of course sewing straight consistently from beginning to end which all of us have problems with in the beginning). In my world, a scant 1/4" is one needle click to the right. It works 100% of the time (except as noted above for star points). I don't mind calling it scant because that is how it measures. It is machine driven, and I never have to think about it. My Bernina gated foot is perfect (and expensive, but saves me time). The two together ensure that every time I sew (even during happy hour!), my seam is going to be exactly the same sans all of the accouterments: tapes, ledges, prayers, tears, curse words! If your machine is too smart and senses a straight stitch plate, you may not be able to use your SS plate and one click to the right. My Bernina B530 is not that smart. I have other machines, but I only piece with this one due to the consistency.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
I agree and it sounds like you have the "scant" issue totally under control, so this is not something you need to wrestle with. As I've said, my issue is not with the seam itself - it's with the confusing and unmeasurable term "scant". I have taught quilting for many years and as much as for some a scant is one 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 so much for watching and for taking the time to offer your opinion on this topic. I do appreciate it!
@Roy-hp5te7 ай бұрын
Thank you so much....I am trying and hope I do much better with my seams.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so very welcome! Thanks for watching!
@terrynagle84397 ай бұрын
Thank you for this tip! Perfect!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
@warialdasue3 ай бұрын
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
@joyfulandmerryquilting3 ай бұрын
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!
@cynthiacarter5322 ай бұрын
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!
@2847Katie7 ай бұрын
I gave up quilting because of "scant" 1/4 inch. This is a much better way. Thank you.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! I find it's so much easier than wrestling with "scant".
@rondaparsons917211 күн бұрын
I just move my needle over a bit. Works great and so much easier than all this fuss.
@joyfulandmerryquilting11 күн бұрын
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!
@emmonstrex657 ай бұрын
This was timely for me- just started a "scant" pattern. Thx for the tips on setting up the machine. Subscribed 👍
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thank you so much and I'm so glad it helped! Accuracy is so important and in my opinion, the term "scant" has too much "guesswork" involved. I'd rather have my seams accurate right from the start and not have to try to figure out how to make those seams "scant".
@TheLadyLair7 ай бұрын
Brilliant
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thank you so much! Thanks for watching!
@kathrynbarker79677 ай бұрын
Great video!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thank you so much! Thanks for watching!
@patcollier4497 ай бұрын
So simple why isn't it obvious. Thank you. this applies to any type of sewing.....
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thank you for your comment and thanks for watching!
@laineysilva31467 ай бұрын
Great Video, Excellent idea. Thank you
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thank you so much! I'm so glad it was helpful!
@debbieparrish43697 ай бұрын
Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us. What a fabulous, cheap method using masking tape 😊.❤
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
I love painter's tape - it is so versatile. Masking tape tends to leave a residue behind. You can remove with with "Goo Be Gone" or something similar, but Painter's tape seems to be a little cleaner when removing it. Thanks for watching Debbie!
@debbieparrish43697 ай бұрын
@@joyfulandmerryquilting Thank you for correcting me. I will make sure to get the painters tape. 👍
@carolclemmons48947 ай бұрын
Oh thank you for sharing this!!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You are so welcome! Thanks for watching and for commenting!
@daleodberg67147 ай бұрын
Very helpful, thank you.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
@quiltfreak647 ай бұрын
Thank you so much for this tip. It’s great
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! Thanks so much for watching!
@robyn33497 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome!
@janolson45797 ай бұрын
I just cut the squares bigger and trim to get my block size right.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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..
@carriestrong5916 ай бұрын
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 😂
@joyfulandmerryquilting6 ай бұрын
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. kzbin.info/www/bejne/roqvZH-enr11aM0 Thanks for watching.
@AuntDi27 ай бұрын
I personally find this very helpful! Oh brother at the controversy!!!! Sheesh!
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thanks so much for watching! Yes - it's seems like something simple can get very controversial, very quickly.
@SewTexas7 ай бұрын
I know exactly what you are talking about. I compensate that hairline by placing fabric just a bit over the cut line and it works out good too.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing!
@sheilawilliams28754 ай бұрын
Would a magnetic seam quide work as well as the tape if you followed all the other steps?
@joyfulandmerryquilting4 ай бұрын
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/
@joanneburattini48287 ай бұрын
THANKU SO MUCH... MY NEW HERO
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You are so very welcome! Thank you so much!
@scottydog65397 ай бұрын
Thank you. Great info
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
@swstrauserАй бұрын
Thank you for this video. I prefer to measure accurately. The term “scant” is like a “pinch” or a “dollop”. It isn’t measured.
@joyfulandmerryquilting29 күн бұрын
I agree! Thanks for commenting and for watching!
@gisellejones11397 ай бұрын
Great hack...takes the guesswork out
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thank you so much! Thanks for watching!
@Life_w_Lora7 ай бұрын
Going through my first few projects I thought I had lost my mind. My numbers were all right when I started but not when I finished. This had to have been the reason. 4 years later and I’ve created similar work arounds as my skills and tools have changed. Because in my “other life” that’s what I do…nurses create workarounds for stuff that makes no sense. 😂
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Thanks so much for watching!
@phoozchic7 ай бұрын
I use an 1/4 inch edge guide foot on my Juki. It keeps the raw edge of the seam against a vertical metal edge on the foot.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
Yes - as long as it's accurate, that's a great option. Thanks for sharing - Juki is a great machine!
@janicemccreary31707 ай бұрын
I use a 1/4" foot with a right "dam" and have to move my needle to the left - 2.5 on my machine. I thought I just didn't sew the seams correctly. Thanks for helping me realize 1/4" drawn on paper doesn't quite translate to a fabric seam.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!
@13abbyj7 ай бұрын
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.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
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!
@phyllislyttle22807 ай бұрын
Thank you great method...❤
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
You're very welcome! Thanks for watching!
@cinziabeley70597 ай бұрын
I move my needle 1 "click" to the right and when I press my seams, I also use a clapper. Perfect result.
@joyfulandmerryquilting7 ай бұрын
That's great! Not all quilters have a machine with that feature, which is why we have to resort to a different way to achieve the same result, but when you do - Voila! It's prefect! Thanks for sharing!