sharon59

Do you quilters use the lines on your cutting board to level/straighten the edges of the material or how do you do it? Someone told me not to use the lines on the cutting board, just use the lines on the ruler to make sure material is cut straight. But, how do I know for sure my ruler is straight, even having a ruler just a little off,will make my cut uneven. What's the best way to cut?

Thanks for your advice
Sharon

Tashana

I rip my fabric to get the true straight line. Fabric on a bolt is rarely cut straight. I clean it up using my ruler. I rarely rely on the board. They warp much easier than a good ruler.

Tartan

I align the 2 selvages edges along my yardage. I fold it again to fit my cutting board. If you have the large cutting mat you don't need to fold the fabric twice. Use a ruler that will go across the fabric you want to cut. I use my large 15 inch square and line one side of the square against the fold. I cut on the opposite side being careful to keep the square steady. After the edge of the fabric is trimmed, I use my square to start cutting the width of fabric I need. I do not use the lines on my matt for cutting.

petthefabric

When the piece is too long for my ruler, I use the mat.
My 24" long ruler is 8 1/2" wide. At the fold of the fabric I line up one of the across lines on the ruler. There's a good book on this "Power Cutting".

sewingsuz

I use the mat and ruler. I learned that way and I guess you can't teach an old Dog new tricks.

Dolphyngyrl

I use my mat and ruler, as long as the lines match there should be no problem

AliKat

I use the mat lines for straightening only after I have properly checked for true the fold in my material. I then use my rulers for cutting.

Jan in VA

I use 2 rulers, like this.

Jan in VA

mighty

I have always used both. Great idea Jan!!!!!!

mpspeedy2

I too am a ripper. I know from almost two years working for a shop that did custom dressmaking and alterations that grain is the secret to good sewing of any kind.