How to press patchwork seams
Set the seam, then press to one side or open. Nest seams so corners meet.
Step by step
- Press the seam flat as sewn first to 'set' it.
- Open the pieces and press the seam allowance to one side, usually towards the darker fabric so it does not show through.
- Press by lifting and lowering the iron rather than sliding it, so pieces do not stretch.
- When joining rows, press seams in opposite directions so they 'nest' together at the corners.
- Press open where many seams meet, to reduce bulk.
Watch
How to Press Your Quilt Block Seams-Quilting Tutorial (5:19)
By Ginnie Lynn · Open on YouTube
Chosen from its title and channel: a 5-minute video from Ginnie Lynn on the same topic as this guide. Embedded from YouTube with credit; we don't host it. It only loads when you press play.
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Sources
All checked November 1, 2026. We read these; we did not test the products ourselves.