Directional Print Border
 

I am making a lap quilt and plan to use a directional print for the outer border. The top and bottom borders will be cut WOF with the print heads up. Should I cut the side borders LOF so the print will be heads up. Would it be 'messy' to cut the side borders the same way? That would put the print heads to the side. TIA LindaNan

Is there a way you can audition them the way you want?
My first inclination is to say cut the other 2 lengthwise but I need a visual to tell.

I agree with you. Many times auditioning by laying the fabric under the edge in the position you are thinking about is the best way to see which way is the best way.

Let me put something together. as soon as I can find my cutting table.:D

Ha!! Sounds like my cutting table!! :D

A lot really depends on the print. Usually, whenever I am working with an obvious directional print in a border, I do cut it so the print is all in the same direction. I also buy to ensure that. Normally I would buy enough fabric to take my WOF cuts and then have enough left to cut two continuous LOF cuts so the printed design is in the same direction. If I don't have enough fabric, I cut my WOF first then put a seam in my LOF pieces. But I have had directional prints where it did look better to cut all 4 sides WOF and attached to the quilt in such a way that when the sides hang over the sides of the bed the directional print is right side up as viewer looks at it when viewing the bed from the side.

It's always a hard decision and many things come into play including whether or not the top is directional.

I usually chose one side to be the outer edge on all four sides, but not always.

Are your corners going to be mitered? Have a cornerstone? Sometimes the corners make the decisions for me.

Thanks everyone. Well, I looked at it both ways, and the side borders really need to be LOF whether or not I use cornerstones. In fact, it is really bad looking as WOF. The print is copyrighted and not for commercial use. The lap quilt is for my friendly niece's first grandchild. I haven't attached a photo of the quilt because I'm not sure how to document the credit. LindaNan

Just did a table topper for my Sis that I did use a directional print and kept all going the same direction. Be sure when you cut it that it is straight of grain as my strips wanted to do some curving!