janRN

I also have problems with accuracy. Then I discovered Paper Piecing. It's the answer to my problems. Maybe try this technique. Cutting doesn't have to be precise, sewing is done on lines--I get perfect (to me) blocks!

quilt938

don't quit anything you love! I don't do swaps as much nowadays because mine seem to be a little off in measurement - my own stuff is good enough for me LOL! I like quick easy fun patterns more than the beautiful intricate detailed ones (though I sur wouldn't object someone give me on LOL)

WTxRed

All great suggestions! For all of us, by the way! I wonder if you've every tried paper-piecing? When doing that, you sew on a pre-determined line and trim back. There are some patterns easier than others!

joyce888

Prism99 has given you good advise, I hope you don't give up. When I was a teenager I made a skirt that was so bad I couldn't wear it but I knew I loved to sew and I didn't give up. Went on to sew every day for 30+ years before turning to quilting. I just quilted the first pieced top that I made 14 years ago and had to smile at the "fat" 1/4" seams and poor choice of fabric. You will also have these memories as you quilt more and gain confidence in your abilities.

Mdegenhart

Rather than a specific block class, I would take a beginning quilting class. That would address the problems you are having. Mine was weekly, 2 hours a night for six weeks.

pocoellie

All great advice on here for you, but one thing I found missing was, do you starch your fabric? Here is how I starch my fabric: when your iron gets all gunky, it's because when you ironing instead of ironing the fabric, you were ironing the starch. I starch every piece of fabric I'm going to work with, throw it in a plastic bag, and let it sit, at least 2 hours ahead of the time, then I'll take it out, either line dry or throw in the dryer for a few minutes, then iron, have never had a problem with the iron getting all gunky then, I do spray mist with water since I don't use the steam on my iron.

Maureen NJ

Great suggestions have been given. Please do not give up. It is such a wonderful hobby. Please give it some time.

Girlfriend

There are certain machines that do a better job of sewing 1/4" seam. What kind do you have?

teacherbailey

I've been quilting for almost 30 years and have had to adjust to the fact that my triangle points and my matching seams are just not going to be as perfect as some other people's. I've tried everything and have decided that since entering quilt shows isn't something I'm interested in, I will give up on the idea of perfection and just love making quilts for the art of the patterns and the challenge of trying something new.....and whatever it looks like when finished is OK with me!

nunnyJo

lots of great suggestions, don't give up trying but then no quilt is perfect