I want to cut strips for a log cabin block. I need to have a lot of different strips for a lot of blocks. What is the best way to cut them, from salvage to salvage or lengthwise? I'm concerned about the bias.

If you need a bunch of different colors I would cut selvege to selvege. If you are going to make all the blocks the same then you could cut lenghways. When I am cutting borders I always cut length ways and it doesn't seem to make a difference as far as the bias

In her latest log cabin book, Judy Martin recommends cutting your log cabin strips lengthwise. There is less stretch to the fabric this way.

I have always done lengthwise with log cabins and never had any problems.

I prefer lengthwise - at least then I have two straight edges for sure -

OK.. granted I learned to sew many, many years ago, but we were taught that there are 2 straight grains on the fabric.. one across it and one the length of it.. and anything off the straight grain is a bias cut as it allows the fabric to stretch. I wash and press my fabric before using which helps me make sure it's not folded "wrong". There is also a method to help you "straighten" the grain of the fabric that involves pulling the fabric in increments on the bias to get it lined up better.. I have done it.. but it's a royal pain in the tuckas (sp) if you ask me.

I wish jelly rolls were sold in separate dark and lights. What a great time saver that would be. I have the Go cutter so I use that for my strips but the June Taylor Shape Cut is my next choice.

pam check with quilters tv.ccom you may something in there to help you

I usually go selvage to selvage. It works best for me.

It is true that there is a straight of grain both ways, but, the length of the fabric has more threads to it then the cross ways grain. So it would be more stabe to use. I hope this helps you some.