Where intersecting seams meet in a quilt top, fabric layers often make bulky, lumpy bumps! And they are not easy to sew through, and sometimes, impossible to sew through! Learn simple techniques to reduce bulky seams and lumpy bumps by grading seam allowances. Read on or watch the video tutorial here.
Key Highlights
- Grading seam allowances is a must for flatter, smoother quilt tops.
- It involves trimming a portion of a seam of one or more layers.
- Each seam is trimmed to a different width, slightly smaller than the other.
- Reducing bulk is especially important for star blocks where many blocks join in the center.
- Don’t be afraid to grade! The minimal reduction in seam strength is worth the improved appearance and ease of pressing.
Why should you grade seam allowances?
Ever wondered why seam grading is such a big deal for quilting? Let’s break it down.
The main reason is simple: it eliminates bulky seam allowances. When multiple layers of fabric are sewn together, the seam allowance can become thick and difficult to press flat. This is especially noticeable with heavier fabrics or where seams intersect. These lumps and bumps are difficult to press flat and sew through, no matter how large your needle or how strong your sewing machine motor!
By trimming each layer of the seam allowance to a slightly different width, you’re essentially stairstepping the bulk into tiny increments. This creates a smoother, more professional finish on the right side of your quilt, and a much easier time when it comes to pressing those seams open or to the side. Trust me, your finished project will thank you!.
Why is grading seam allowances important in QUILTING?
Grading seam allowances is crucial in sewing to reduce bulkiness, create smoother seams, and stitches over the quilt top more easily. By grading seam allowances, lumpy bumps are less visible and the quilt top is smoother. Stitching is more consistent and this makes a tremendous difference.
Step-by-Step Guide to Grading Seams
Grading is a simple technique where you trim each layer of the seam allowance to a slightly different width, like stair steps. Now let’s gather our tools for the job.
Sewing Tools Needed for Effective Seam Grading
Before you start grading, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- Sharp Fabric Scissors: A good pair of fabric scissors is a must-have for any sewing project. I use Karen Kay Buckley Perfect Scissors 4-inch size – and worth every penny. Make sure to use scissors with sharp, pointed blades that can cleanly cut through multiple layers of fabric.
- Duckbill Scissors (applique): These scissors have one blade shaped like a duckbill, which helps to lift the top layer of fabric away from the seam allowance you’re trimming. They’re particularly helpful with delicate fabrics or curves.
- Seam Ripper: Use a seam ripper to pick out stitches at the ends of the seam lines where they overlap.
Techniques for Grading Different Types of Seams
Grading techniques vary depending on the type of seam you’re working with. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Press the seams to one side.
- For straight seams – pressed to one side: On the wrong side, trim the first layer facing closest to you by ⅛-inch while the innermost layer stays ¼ -inch wide. Notice how the gold fabric layers of the seam are narrower in the photo below.
3. Convex Curves: These curves need a little extra room to lay flat. After grading, make small “V” clips or notch into the seam allowance to allow for easing. The notch helps the spread the fabric open so it lays flat. Notch seam allowances when both are pressed to the side of the seam outside of the curve.
- Concave Curves: Clip into the seam allowance every ½” or so to allow the tiny fabric sections to slightly overlap each other. Concave curve allowances are pressed away from the curve, not into it.
Always refer to your pattern instructions for specific grading recommendations for your project.
Quick Tips Make the Grade
- When seams overlap, pick out a few stitches at the ends to open up the seams which helps make a clean cut.
- You might have smaller than ⅛-inch allowances where many points meet and that’s okay.
- Open seams need grading sometimes, depending on the block type.
Conclusion
Grading seam allowances enhances the overall look and feel of your quilts by reducing bulk and ensuring smooth edges and curves. Understanding the importance of seam grading and using the right tools and techniques can take your sewing skills to the next level. Remember, personal preference is key for precision, and practice makes better to sew professional-looking seams. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be on your way to creating beautifully finished quilts. Happy sewing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between grading and trimming seam allowances?
Trimming means simply cutting off excess fabric from the seam allowance. Grading involves trimming each layer of the seam allowance to a different width, creating a stepped effect that reduces bulk.
How can I prevent bulky seams in quilt tops?
Press your seam allowances open when possible. At seam intersections, trim the excess fabric from each seam allowance close to the joining point if turning both to one side.
- Use sharp scissors and trim small amounts
- Don’t backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam, which adds extra thread.
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