How to Achieve a Scant ¼" Seam Allowance (Provided by Elaine Theriault of Northcott Fabrics)
You need a scant ¼" seam allowance rather than an accurate ¼" seam allowance to accommodate for the small fold that occurs when pressing your seams. The ¼" foot that comes with your machine is not necessarily a scant ¼". It's important to do this test as an incorrect seam allowance can greatly affect the accuracy of your project.
⦁ Cut three fabric strips that measure 1 ½" wide by approximately 4 -5" long.
⦁ Sew the three strips together with your scant ¼" seam.
⦁ Press the seams well and measure by placing a ruler on top of your fabrics.
⦁ Ideally, the width of the three strips will be 3 ½".
⦁ If the piece is wider than 3 ½", then your seam allowance is too small.
⦁ If the piece is narrower than 3 ½", then your seam allowance is too large.
⦁ Adjust accordingly and retest. I have to sew with my fabric just slightly to the left of the edge of my ¼" foot in order to achieve a scant ¼" seam allowance.