I don't think there is any right or wrong way to cutting straight edges. I read a post here about someone cutting backwards and guess what, I am NOW doing it that way. I don't care a whit about the quilt police. I just do whatever will give me good accurate straight cuts safely. I like having the 6"x24" ruler completely on the fabric because the ruler doesn't slip at all any more. Try different techniques and stick with what works best for you.