Well, i always iron my fabric before cutting, because, after sewing it will get ironed, and i would not want the ironing to stretch the fabric a bit, so i iron it first, then i lay down 4 layers of fabric on my cutting mat. I smooth out each layer with my hands, so each layer is nice and tight. I cut at the kitchen table, standing above the mat, so i can press down on my ruler and cutter. I will take 4 large pieces of fabric, about 11"x20", and i cut 2 1/2" strips, beginning on the right of the fabric, and moving to the left. I always use my mat lines for measuring, my mat lines are very accurate. I don't move the stack of fabric at allo. I cut all my lines in one direction, then if my strips need any cuts in the other direction, i just give the mat a quick spin , and carry on cutting.