Pam in WV

I want to cut strips for a log cabin block. I need to have a lot of different strips for a lot of blocks. What is the best way to cut them, from salvage to salvage or lengthwise? I'm concerned about the bias.

duckydo

If you need a bunch of different colors I would cut selvege to selvege. If you are going to make all the blocks the same then you could cut lenghways. When I am cutting borders I always cut length ways and it doesn't seem to make a difference as far as the bias

dunster

In her latest log cabin book, Judy Martin recommends cutting your log cabin strips lengthwise. There is less stretch to the fabric this way.

MelissaK

I have always done lengthwise with log cabins and never had any problems.

bearisgray

I prefer lengthwise - at least then I have two straight edges for sure -

Tippy

OK.. granted I learned to sew many, many years ago, but we were taught that there are 2 straight grains on the fabric.. one across it and one the length of it.. and anything off the straight grain is a bias cut as it allows the fabric to stretch. I wash and press my fabric before using which helps me make sure it's not folded "wrong". There is also a method to help you "straighten" the grain of the fabric that involves pulling the fabric in increments on the bias to get it lined up better.. I have done it.. but it's a royal pain in the tuckas (sp) if you ask me.

BellaBoo

I wish jelly rolls were sold in separate dark and lights. What a great time saver that would be. I have the Go cutter so I use that for my strips but the June Taylor Shape Cut is my next choice.

nellie

pam check with quilters tv.ccom you may something in there to help you

littlehud

I usually go selvage to selvage. It works best for me.

RedGarnet222

It is true that there is a straight of grain both ways, but, the length of the fabric has more threads to it then the cross ways grain. So it would be more stabe to use. I hope this helps you some.