TAMARATJO

I press to set seams before pressing them to one side. I learned to do this from watching MSQC tutorials with Jennie Doan. I was wondering if most people do this? If so, why do we do this? I assume it is beneficial in some way. Interested in the "science" behind this process.

QuiltnNan

it buries the threads into the fabric, thus making less bulk in the fold.

TAMARATJO

gramma nancy

Thanks for asking this. I do it, too, but I'm never quite sure why it is advised.

SusieQOH

I've seen Jenny do this but I always forget. I honestly don't know why she does it. Maybe she said so and I didn't catch it.
ETA- just saw Nan's answer!

Jingle

Most of the time I do. Seems to make the seam allowance go over easier.

Cactus Stitchin

Way back in my garment sewing days I learned to press it the way it was sewn then press how you want the finished seam. The reason given as I remember, was that pressing the way it was sewn first ‘relaxed’ the tension on the stitches and smoothed the small ripples left after sewing. In addition, as QuiltnNan stated above it also buries the thread into the fabric making it easier to turn the seam.

JustAbitCrazy

I do it most of the time, but I question if it really does anything.

tallchick

As others have said, It was my understanding that it allows the stitches to grab hold of the fabric and allow for flatter seams. Couldn’t say if it makes a difference or not because I press and starch everything.

Teen

I just read an article a few days ago on this very subject.. Basically, the gals have answered this already but I thought I'd share since I was always curious as to the reason as well.

https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/pres...chwork-2821455