Forgot to mention, When cutting from left to right, the first cut I position my fabric and make the cut oversized and perpendicular to the folds. I only turn over that strip to correct the other edge, leaving the bulk of the fabric in place.
I prewash and press and refold my fabric so it is all very straight to grain before cutting. I prefer to tear one edge prior to washing, other people feel differently about that. I don't use starch, but I do press firm.