1) Prewash & dry
2) If you are not going to use all of the fabric, cut the amount you will need and fold and store the remainder
3) Starch
4) Fold the starched piece and wrap in plastic or a zip lock bag and store in the fridge for at least 1 hour
5) Press the starched fabric
6) Cut
Yes I put my fabric in the fridge after starching. I find I get a crisper/firmer result, no scorching, no residue, and less excess starch remaining on my ironing board.
If you want to skip the fridge step at least wait 5 minutes or so for the starch to soak completely into the fabric. Not letting the starch set is the leading cause for both scorching and residue.