Troubleshooting 7 Common Quilting Problems

Quilting can be rewarding, but it can also come with challenges. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned quilter, encountering problems while sewing is not uncommon. As a long-time quilter, I’m not immune to some common quilting issues! Here are some ideas for troubleshooting some of the most common quilting issues I’ve found helpful over the years.

NOTE: These tips refer to the portions of the quilting process when you piece together quilt blocks, not the process of machine quilting layers of fabric together with batting. In a future article, we will share troubleshooting for machine quilting.

Problem #1: Finished Blocks are the Wrong Size

Problem: Seams are not uniform in width, leading to puckering, misalignment, and finished blocks that are the incorrect size, either too small or too large.

Solutions:

• Check Your Seam Allowance: This is the ABSOLUTE #1 problem that I see quilters make. Most of the time, their seam allowance is too large. Ensure your machine’s seam allowance guide is correct and consistent. Also, you can’t always trust the measurements on your sewing machine. You must manually check and mark your machine’s scant 1/4″ seam allowance.
• Use a 1/4-Inch Foot: A 1/4-inch sewing machine foot can help maintain accurate seam allowances. Again, double-check this measurement!
• Use Washi Tape to Mark Seam Allowance: Use washi tape (I like Allison Harris’s seam tape) to mark exactly where a 1/4″ seam allowance should be on your machine.
• Press as You Go: Press seams open or to one side as you sew. This helps to flatten the fabric and align seams properly.
• Practice Accurate Cutting: Use a rotary cutter and ruler to cut fabric pieces precisely. You may also want to starch your fabric before cutting.

Problem #2: Fabric Shifting

Problem: Fabric layers shift or move out of alignment during sewing.

Solutions:

• Pin or Clip Thoroughly: Secure fabric layers with pins or clips to prevent shifting.
• Sew with a Slow, Steady Speed: Sewing slowly gives you more control and reduces the likelihood of fabric movement.
• Use a Stiletto: Use a stiletto or seam ripper to guide the fabric through your sewing machine. When we often move our fingers out of the way of the sewing machine foot and needle, the fabric shifts slightly, and the seam allowance is thrown off.

Problem #3: Thread Breaks

Problem: Thread breaks frequently during sewing.

Solutions:

• Check Thread Quality: Use high-quality thread for your fabric and sewing machine.
• Thread Your Machine Properly: Ensure the thread is correctly threaded through all guides and the needle.
• Replace the Needle: A damaged or dull needle can cause thread breakage. Use the correct needle type and size for your fabric.
• Clean the Machine: Regularly clean your sewing machine. Remove lint and debris from the bobbin case and feed dogs to prevent thread jams and breakage.
• Check the thread type and weight. Some machines do not “like” thinner-weight threads. If you want to sew with thinner threads (such as 30wt, 40wt) you may need to lighten the tension on your sewing machine. If you’re unsure which thread weight and type to use for your project, check out our Complete Guide to Machine Quilting Threads article.

Problem #4: Uneven Quilt Top

Problem: The quilt top appears wavy or uneven after piecing.

Solutions:

• Square Up Your Blocks: Before assembling the quilt top, ensure all your blocks are squared up to the size noted in the pattern and uniform size.
• Use the Right Seam Allowance: As you assemble your quilt top, use consistent seam allowances to help ensure that blocks and strips align correctly.
• Press Seams Open: Pressing seams open can reduce the bulk and help the quilt top lay flat.

Problem #5: Quilt Blocks or Top Are Coming Undone

Problem: The seams unravel as you handle your quilt top and blocks.

Solution:

• Add a Stay Stitch: This is more likely to happen if you press your quilt block seams open. You may need to run a stay stitch around the outside perimeter of your blocks after they are pressed and squared up. This seam should be stitched as close to the edge of the block as possible so it does not show in the finished quilt.
• Stitch Around Perimeter of Quilt Top: If a quilt does not have outside borders, run a stitch around the entire perimeter of the finished quilt top to secure the seams. This will help keep the seams from coming apart when the quilt is being quilted (this is especially helpful if the quilt is being quilted on a longarm machine).

Problem #6: Binding Doesn’t Look Great

Problem: The quilt binding is uneven or has visible wrinkles.

Solutions:

• Fold and Press Binding Evenly: Ensure the binding is evenly folded and pressed before attaching it to the quilt.
• Use Binding Clips: Use binding clips to hold the binding in place while sewing.
• Sew with a Consistent Seam Allowance: Maintain a consistent seam allowance when attaching the binding to prevent puckers.

Problem #7: It’s Not Perfect, So You Don’t Want to Finish

Problem: As you work, all you see are your mistakes, making you want to quit and leading to a disprportialy large number of unfinished projects.

Perfectionism in quilting can often lead to frustration and burnout, making a joyful hobby feel more like a chore. Here are some tips to help you let go of perfectionism and embrace the beauty of imperfection in your quilting projects.

Solutions:

• Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. Accept that not every quilt will be perfect and that each one is a unique expression of your creativity.
• Focus on Progress, Not Perfection: Celebrate the progress you make rather than fixating on the flaws. Every stitch you sew is a step toward improving your skills and completing your project.
• Learn from Mistakes: Instead of viewing mistakes as failures, see them as opportunities to learn and grow. Each error teaches you something new and helps you become a better quilter.
• Take Breaks: Step away from your project if you feel overwhelmed or frustrated. Taking breaks helps you return with a fresh perspective and renewed energy.
• Remember, You Like Doing This: Remind yourself why you started quilting in the first place. Keep that motivation at the forefront for relaxation, creativity, or the joy of making something with your hands.
• Remember the Why: If you’re like me, you do this for yourself. Remember that it’s just for you and your enjoyment; it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks. Honestly, most people are more worried about their own perceived mistakes than yours.

What did I miss? Do you have any troubleshooting tips to share? Leave them in the comments section so others can benefit from your knowledge!