Originally Posted by damaquilts

I do for borders. Its just easier or if I am making something like dog crate covers. Measure Rip, Measure , Rip. I have a rectangle the right size. Its so much easier than trying to cut the right size. Backing if I have to piece one, rip. Sometimes if I am really lazy I will rip strips for sashings just a little wider then cut them even. I find I don't get that V in the middle like I do if I cut from the bigger piece. And I have starched Ironed straightened smoothed till I am blue in the face and still get the V.
I have always ripped , I think because I use to work in a fabric shop long,long ago that had the measuring machines that clipped , then we tore.

Originally Posted by quilter on the eastern edge

I was taught to get the straight of grain this way.......

Fold the fabric selvage to selvage. Then hold it out in front of you. If there is a distinct bump or fold along the folded edge, then manipulate the selvage edges by scooching them along, one in one direction and the other in the other direction, until the fold disappears and the fabric lays flat. Then even off the cut the edges with a ruler and a rotary cutter.

Works every time!