Lay Out Fabric

Lay out fabric

The layout of fabric is important because there is usually more stretch in on direction than in another, even with non-stretch fabrics. This can make a difference in how the finished garment behaves. At least a bit of stretch is desired across the back width of a skirt, for example, but not along the length of the skirt.

Lay Out Fabric

Grain Lines

A) The fabric is laid out, and folded according to the pattern directions, or close. The selvage is lined up along the corner and along the tables edge, (or T-square). If not square, trim the CUT side (not selvage) until both sides are square and lines up to the tables edge, as in the photo above. Tools used here are either a T-square pictured here, or the edge of the cardboard table ($20). Two sides of most any table could be used in a pinch.

B) In this photo you see that the fabric is folded over with WRONG sides together, and the fold is lined up according to the nearest straight line, so the fabric stays square.

NOTE: See "Make Holiday Apron" for details on this particular project. Make Holiday Apron

Lay Out fabric

A ) Line up one end of the ruler on a set of straight parallel lines outside the fabric.

B) Find the grain line on the pattern. In exhibit B the ruler’s edge is lined up on the pattern grain line.

C) Adjust pattern if necessary. When both ends line up, pin in place starting with a pin in the grain line.

NOTE: Always minimize pin holes when possible.

Line up the grain line on the pattern and the grain line on the fabric, parallel to the selvage.

Lay Out Fabric