Spinning Seams: A Simple Trick for Perfectly Flat Quilt Blocks

Struggling with bulky seams in your quilt blocks? You’re not alone! Whether you love clean, modern quilts that highlight gorgeous fabric prints, or you’re like me—drawn to intricate piecing and detailed patterns—bulky seams can be a real challenge. I’ve broken more sewing needles than I can count thanks to thick clusters of seam allowances. Who knew soft cotton could be so tough? The good news? Intentional pressing and seam planning can make a world of difference. That’s why I always create a pressing plan before I start piecing. I sketch out the block in my notebook and note which direction each seam will be pressed. It may sound fussy, but trust me—the results are worth it! My quilts now lay flatter, the points match up more neatly, and best of all, fewer broken needles. The secret? Spinning your seams—a clever technique that helps distribute bulk and improve accuracy. It’s a game-changer for quilters of all skill levels.

Spinning seams is used only where two or more seams intersect. For this technique to work, your seams must be nested—meaning one seam is pressed in one direction and the other in the opposite direction when placed right sides together. With properly nested seams, you can stitch across the intersection with ease. This method not only reduces bulk but also helps your corners line up more precisely for a cleaner, more professional-looking quilt.

Once your seams are stitched, it’s time to “spin” the intersection. If you backstitched, start by carefully picking out the stitches in the seam allowance of the last seam sewn. If you didn’t backstitch, you can simply “pop” the junction with a twist—gently pull the two nested seams away from each other while twisting the intersection. This will open up the seam and allow the bulk to spread evenly.

Next, give it a good press. You’ll see the seams naturally start to spin around the center, with each one laying in a different direction—down, left, up, and right—depending on how the seams were nested. This technique reduces bulk and helps your block lie flatter. It’s also why I always plan my pressing direction ahead of time—a little prep makes a big difference in the final result!

So, the next time you’re piecing a quilt, give spinning seams a try! Look for those intersecting seams, plan your pressing, and give that little twist a go—it’s a small step that makes a big difference in how your quilt top comes together. Try it on your next project, and when you do, don’t forget to send us a picture! We love seeing what you’re working on and celebrating your quilting magic.

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