Selvage

by Darleen
(MN)

I know about cutting your fabric on the selvage. Once it's cut, do I need to worry how my squares are turned to sew together?

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ANSWER

You don't have to worry about the edges on square pieces. Two of the sides will be cut on the crosswise grain, and two sides will be cut on the lengthwise grain (see graphic below). These are the straight grains. They're strong and they'll hold their shape well.

But, when you cut the squares on the bias grain, you're going to deal with a very stretchy grain. For example, you cut your squares on the bias when you're making half square triangles.

For that reason, it's important to position the lengthwise and crosswise grains on the outer edges of your fabric pieces (see graphic below). This prevents them from stretching too much during the sewing process.

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