Originally Posted by ClairVoyantQuilter
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? :)
some fabric stores do not realize how off they cut fabric. have you ever noticed how the salvage is crocked? so the rip sets the cross grain of fabric then you would fold your fabric with salvaged edges togethered your rip line will line up great. then all cuts are perpendicula to the grain line and fabric pattern will line up better.