Cutting fabric straight is an important skill for anyone starting in sewing. Here are some simple steps to help you:

1. Gather Your Tools:

   • You will need:
     • Sharp scissors or a rotary cutter
     • A cutting mat
     • A ruler or straightedge
     • Fabric chalk or a marker
     • A measuring tape

2. Measure Accurately:

   • Make sure to measure your fabric two times. This helps avoid mistakes. If you measure wrong, you could waste up to 20% more fabric!
   • Use the measuring tape for larger pieces and the ruler for smaller ones.

3. Mark the Fabric:

   • Use fabric chalk or a marker to draw straight cutting lines. It’s a good idea to mark at least 1/4 inch from the edge. This helps keep everything even.

4. Use a Cutting Mat:

   • A cutting mat is great because it gives you a flat, strong surface. This helps keep your cuts straight. Plus, using a mat can make your scissors last longer!

5. Cutting Technique:

   • Always cut away from your body to stay safe and keep control.
   • If you are using a rotary cutter, press down evenly to get a clean edge.
   • If you are using scissors, follow the line you marked carefully. Don’t try to rush the cut.

6. Check Your Work:

   • After you finish cutting, measure again to make sure your pieces are even. Even a small mistake can cause bigger problems when you start sewing.

By following these steps, beginners can get better at cutting straight. Good cutting is really important for sewing projects to turn out well!