Rose Marie

Our group makes quilts for donation so all the blocks have to be the right size.
Scant allows for the fold so I always use a scant.
I have found that some blocks with lots of seams take a smaller scant than others.
Sometimes it takes 2 needle adjustments and sometimes even more. My machine has a 1/4 inch setting for using my normal foot but still have to narrow it a couple of notchs.
I use Eleanor Burns method for perfect HST and no distortion.

kapatt

I'm glad you said that about the block taking a smaller scant seam when the block has more seams. This is something that a lot of new quilters don't realize. The more seams you put in, the more of a chance your block will not be as big as you want it.

There are a couple of other things that can mess up the 1/4 inch seam.... one is if you have a thicker thread and the other thing is if you are not careful when you press the block.

Peckish

When I make mini quilts, I definitely use a thinner thread! It DOES make a difference! Usually I use Superior's Bottom Line, which is also what I use for hand applique.