flikkem

I have the same trouble. My solution is to move the needle position one place to the right before stitching my seams. I think my problem is that I run the fabric up against my 1/4 inch foot too closely. I have Steady Betty's and do not use them. It was a waste of money for me.

Dogwood Quilter

I would also like to mention, check your rulers and cutting mat for accuracy of the markings. Not all mats and rulers are accurate. When you cut your pieces do you place your ruler mark up to or on the measurement mark you are going to cut. It should be on the mark not up to it. I hope this is clear. As mentioned thread can make a difference. I buy Guetermann (sp) cone cotton thread from Joanns when it's on sale. It's online only. It's a very fine, strong thread and no lint.

unclefreckles

I have one and use it all the time. It is my main ironing station unless I have a large amount of fabric to iron, then I get out my large board. It will most likely help but I would go with making your seams a "scant 1/4" as others have suggested.

BettyGee

I love the name, since my name is Betty; but at the price I will stay steady all by myself. The one thing I learned, the hard way of course, is that pressing is an important step and that it must be done correctly. Ironing is not pressing, that was the lesson I learned the hard way. That pesky quarter inch seam is so important and my quest to attain it still remains one of the most important parts when I'm working on a project. Thirty years of quilting and sewing and I'm still learning new things. As for spending that kind of money on a pressing board I'd have to say no, I can think of so many other things I'd rather have.

llong0233

I see several replies but not to your question directly...about value. Are they worth the money? Holy Back-stitch, Batman...$90????? I see 2 replies saying they have this too but never use it. Seems like trying the pressing and 1/4" suggestions would make sense. Then you still have your $90 and you will have learned how to manage your stitching so it can be done anywhere at any time, even if you don't have a Steady Betty. Good luck and please let us know how you choose. I have found mastering the 1/4" seam the single most important, and illusive, skill.

Onebyone

I don't have sticker shock over quilting items. Really other then the high end machines nothing is priced to faint over. How can I know if an item is worth it to me if I don't try it for myself. I would have passed up items that were great help to me if I went by what others said they cost too much. I can save money elsewhere if need be but I won't start with my one passion, quilting.

lyndaj

I got a steady betty right before Christmas. Love it.

DanaNVa

Are using steam to press your blocks and the fabric is shrinking as you steam?

quiltsRfun

Don't measure the seam. Measure your finished sample block and adjust your seam allowance accordingly. It will vary depending on fabric and thread used.

luci4

Measure your sewn block, if it is undersized you need to use a narrower seam. Nobody cares if your quarter inch seam is a bit undersized or if it is the perfect quarter. What counts is the size of the block after being sewn together.