Grain lines -
#1
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Join Date: May 2008
Location: MN
Posts: 24,660
Grain lines -
When possible, I prefer to have lengthwise straight of grain for the outside edges/borders of any quilts I make -
Because, usually, the lengthwise grain has less stretch and is more stable.
The down side of using the less stretch direction - it is more difficult to ease in any oversized blocks/pieces.
Because, usually, the lengthwise grain has less stretch and is more stable.
The down side of using the less stretch direction - it is more difficult to ease in any oversized blocks/pieces.
#7
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Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Ontario, Canada
Posts: 17,827
I agree on the concept that LOF is the better option, for less stretch and stability ...
... plus eliminating seams.
However ... as an interesting segue,
... the only time I have had wavy borders was for my FWS quilt, when I was "smart" using LOF!!
And what a bear (no pun intended BearIsGray!)they were to get flattened out.
I finally got them there, but it was not a good experience at all.
Yes, now, I only use WOF.
Of course, that will change someday when I choose a border print running LOF!
... plus eliminating seams.
However ... as an interesting segue,
... the only time I have had wavy borders was for my FWS quilt, when I was "smart" using LOF!!
And what a bear (no pun intended BearIsGray!)they were to get flattened out.
I finally got them there, but it was not a good experience at all.
Yes, now, I only use WOF.
Of course, that will change someday when I choose a border print running LOF!
#8
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2017
Location: Buckinghamshire, England
Posts: 628
I use WOF as it is much more economical. I’ve never had the wavy border problem but I do measure and then clip on my border (using binding clips) carefully - match up the middle and quarter points.
#9
I am a recent convert to LOF for borders. Now that I have had several years of quilting on a longarm, I am a happy camper when the borders are flat!! I am also ocd when it comes to patterns and the seams in the middle of a border really bother me . The LOF is a good solution for me. I measure the middle of the quilt and cut both sides of the border fabric to that measurement. bearisgray - you are correct however - if you have an oversize block it is harder to ease in. When that happens and it isn't too far off, I revert to my old sewing habits - remember easing is sleeves?? I will loosen the tension and run a quick stitch just inside the 1/4 inch mark - sometimes just the stitching alone is enough to pull in the fabric and make it fit.
#10
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Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Southern USA
Posts: 16,426
I have never found any difference in lengthwise or crosswise when sewing borders. I have my border fabric stiff as paper before cutting and sewing. I never have a problem with floppy or wavy borders.
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