help? cutting along selvedge??
 

Hello all... The directions for a baby/little boy quilt I'm making calls for (5) 42 1/2" lengths of background fabric. I've enlarged the pattern, so I need 66" lengths. The directions say to cut the lengths along the selvedge... I'm feeling intimidated by this!! I have the fabric... but, um, any advice on how to cut them?
help???? (and thank you!!)

It means to cut the lengthwise of the fabric to avoid piecing.. I assume these strips are smashing.

Yes, cutting lengthwise is how I'd interpret the pattern. Doesn't mean you have to... you can piece them if that doesn't bother you. It doesn't me, but some folks it does.

I like to cut borders the length of the fabric. If the cut width is supposed to be 6 inches, I will snip the fabric at 6.5 inch intervals along the width and tear it lengthwise. I will then press, and trim the extra quarter inch off of each side which may get a bit distorted by the tearing. I've never had a problem tearing fabric along the grain like this. It's kind of liberating once you get the hang of it and so much easier than cutting long strips.

If you haven't torn fabric before, now is a good time! I love doing it. Be prepared for a little distortion (like Laura said) but a bit of trimming on both sides afterwards will solve the problem.

Tear it!! YES!!! See, I never would have thought of that!! That way I don't have to worry about folding it absolutely straight! It will be on the grain and then trimming is not a big deal!!! YAY!!! Thanks everyone!!! I was just so intimidated about cutting that length... cutting STRAIGHT that length!!

Please let us know how it goes! :-)

Laura... Ladies... WOW.... Works like a charm!!! an absolute CHARM!!! Thank you so much!!! I have conquered a new technique, thanks to all of you!!!

Happy Quilting!!! (Now, I just might get this quilt finished in time for the shower on Saturday!!! Yikes!!!)