The Secret to Making the Y-Seam Is So Much Easier Than You Think

For even the most experienced quilters, Y-seams can be intimidating. This occurs when three fabric edges join in one point, like when you sew hexagons together or create a tumbling block design - forming an unmistakable 'Y' shape. Eight-pointed stars also require Y-seams to construct them effectively and give your project the professional touch it needs!

Put aside your fear of Y-seams - they're not so intimidating! Once you figure out the secret to mastering them, it'll become second nature. The trick is how you begin and end each seam: Instead of joining two fabrics edge to edge like with most other seams, start and stop a quarter inch away from the rims when sewing Y-seams. Trust us; this hack will make life much easier for any sewist tackling these tricky seams!

If you're still having doubts, don't worry! We are here to help guide you through a step-by-step process with pre-cut hexagons.

A Little Y-Seam Wisdom

• As you sew with bias edges, be mindful to not tug or pull on the fabric due to its stretchy nature. Handle your work delicately for ultimate success and satisfaction!
• Are you working with a template that has pre-drilled holes to mark where the seams will intersect? If so, great! But if not, have no fear. Here's an effective alternative - use a mechanical pencil to draw lines ¼” from each edge of your fabric pieces (on the wrong side). This step is essential for Y-seam construction as it allows you to easily identify and locate the exact intersection points of seams.
• Remember to stay within the markings! If you ever find yourself sewing beyond the dots or intersection points and into your seam allowances, it can create puckers on the front of your blocks. To rectify this issue, simply unpick where you over-stitched. Following these steps will help ensure a perfect finish for all of your projects!
• For an optimal sewing experience, equip your machine with an open toe or clear foot so you can precisely observe your progress. Then, insert the needle into each dot before commencing to sew.

Now You’re Ready to Sew

1. Line ‘Em Up

Make sure the cut edges of your first two pieces are in line (right sides together). Securely sew a ¼-inch seam, starting and ending exactly at the dots or marked intersection points. To ensure the longevity of your seams, take a couple of backstitches at both ends.

2. Add Your Third Piece

Next, collect your third piece and place it right sides together. Now carefully sew along the second seam of your “Y”—but take care to stay within the stitch lines that you created before, so as not to exceed them or seep into any encompassing allowance seams.

3. Sew the Final Side

After you have pivoted the third piece and sewn the last side of your “Y” shape, make sure to give extra attention not to sew over either previous seam.

4. Press

After pressing all three seams of the back side, flip your block over and bask in admiration as you behold its neat and well-crafted "Y"!