Often times fabric is printed slightly off kilter . . .even some of the better cottons. For large pieces, such as backing. . .I always rip abut an inch from the edge since fabric will tear along a thread . . .iron flat . . .then cut the torn edge after folding length wise (but not ironing the fold). As for creating a "new" fold, I personally dont do that and not sure why you would be instructed to do so, but would be interested in the explanation? :)