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how to cut long strips straight?

how to cut long strips straight?

Old 07-28-2012, 06:33 AM
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Default how to cut long strips straight?

I see these patterns that saw cut 2"x42" strips. I wonder how anyone can do that and keep it striaght? I only have a 12x12 cutting board. I have tried it by moving the fabric little by little across my cutting mat but that seems tedious. What better way is there?
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Old 07-28-2012, 06:41 AM
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You could double fold the fabric having four layers to cut through. You need a bigger cutting mat. Walmart has big cutting mats that are inexpensive.
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Old 07-28-2012, 06:47 AM
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You could rip that 42" piece or you could piece it. If you are wanting to absolutely cut it you need to buy a larger mat and a longer ruler.
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Old 07-28-2012, 06:52 AM
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I fold and cut on a 18" mat. I use Martelli rotary cutter and non slip ruller for completely accurate strips. That rotary cutter will cut through 12 layers of fabric like butter.
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Old 07-28-2012, 07:08 AM
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The sad fact is, the more times you have to fold your fabric, or move it, the more likely that your strips will be uneven. I agree with the others, a bigger mat would be your best choice.
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Old 07-28-2012, 07:14 AM
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I recently needed long strips for binding, so I tore it instead of cutting. Ironing flattened the edges nicely.
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Old 07-28-2012, 07:15 AM
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Originally Posted by TanyaL View Post
You could rip that 42" piece or you could piece it. If you are wanting to absolutely cut it you need to buy a larger mat and a longer ruler.
I would rip it.
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Old 07-28-2012, 07:17 AM
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if you get a larger mat, get a good one. not just one that is cheap.
this should help you too http://quilting.about.com/od/rotaryc...ing_strips.htm
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Old 07-28-2012, 07:18 AM
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Originally Posted by dunster View Post
The sad fact is, the more times you have to fold your fabric, or move it, the more likely that your strips will be uneven. I agree with the others, a bigger mat would be your best choice.

Totally agree ... more folds ... more risk for elbows in the cut strips.
And absolutely, a larger mat is something you will never regret.

Another help to get really straight strips is to make sure the fabric is well pressed first. A little starch, best press or sizing is good too. Then cut carefully, holding your ruler straight and steady!
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Old 07-28-2012, 07:38 AM
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I feel I get more accurate cuts when I fold selvage to selvage and then fold again, salvages to fold for 4 layers. My fabric stays more stable and I'm less likely to have my ruler shift. A sharp blade helps a ton too.
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