Most fabric is 42 1/2 to 44 inches wide from salvage to salvage. You only need to leave your fabric folded in half, fold in half by pulling the salvage edges to meet the center fold; straighten the cut edge and then cut a 5" strip. Open it up and you will have a piece approximately 5" x 42 1/2". Some times the instructions do not need exactly 42 1/2" depending on how it is being used. Keep quilting and enjoying. Charlie1940