Nanamoms

I should know this answer but it's hidden in the deep recesses of my mind tonight. I need to cut strips 5" x 72" as one solid piece. My cutting mat is 18x24. Ok, I got the 5 inches covered but how can I cut my 72" without moving the fabric along the 24" side. Fabric needs to be cut on straight of grain. Please help????? This project is due on Thursday and I still have to do the embroidery.

Confused in MS!!

jean1941

Can you fold and cut through 6 or 7 layers?
That is what I am going to be doing in a few days only I need about 100" and got the same size mat as you.

Holice

i fold it in half and move the fabric when I need it along the mat.

wanda lou

I also fold it and move it along.

Airwick156

Borrow someones cutting mat...get out a couple of long picnic size tables but them end to end if need be and spread the fabric out (folded in half) and then you won't have to move the fabric. LOL.

TonnieLoree

Do you have the 72" in length? This might just be an occasion one might want to succumb to tearing your fabric. Or, if you are good at folding straight. Your fabric could be folded into 1/4 ths. That would give you plenty of room on your 24" cutting mat.

connie_1936

i always tear any stris that need to be that long. i add a half inch so i can trim the fuzzies from the edges.

Quiltforme

I tried the double over method and had a curve just be careful if you do this that the fabric is perfectly folded and no spaces. I will try the tear method next time.

Kat Sews

When you use the folded method cut a strip to straighten the edge then open the strip and make sure it is straight before making any more cuts. This will eliminate the dog leg cuts.

Nanamoms

Great suggestions! I will "carefully' give the 1/4th folds a try. My kitchen counter that I cut on isn't quite 72". I think I can try taping it in place, too, so it won't slip. The fabric I'm using is "dull satin" so it can be very slippery. I have been just measuring it with a marking pencil but my hand cutting is shaky lately plus cutting with scissors makes the fabric even more slippery.

I'm going to try this after I take my afternoon nap...that way my hands will be streadier...or so I'm convincing myself. LOL