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?

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.

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 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.

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.

I recently needed long strips for binding, so I tore it instead of cutting. Ironing flattened the edges nicely.

I would rip it.

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

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!

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.