Spinning Seams to reduce bulk
When quiltmaking, I definitely prefer to press my seams to the side rather than open, I think it creates more durable seams and makes pressing easier. Something I always try to do in my quilts is make the seam allowances nest. Sometimes it can be quite a bit of a puzzle - the key though is plan the pressing directions before you start sewing!
Spinning seams is a nifty technique also known as ‘twirling seams’ and enables four patch blocks to nest no matter how the blocks are rotated. All blocks must be rotated in the same direction for the seams to nest. Below is a little video demonstration on spinning a seam.
You may also like to read about
Hand applique circle techniques
Handquilting with perle 8 thread