I am starting a little project on some linen fabric as a gift.  When checking the fabric in the store, I knew I would not get an accurate cut on the crosswise grain of the fabric.  This crosswise grainline is made with the filler or  “welf” yarn.  This is not the stronger of the two yarns used when constructing fabric, and will stretch more than the lengthwise or “warp” yarns.

Move your eyes across the cut edge and note it does NOT follow the textured filler yarn.

A way to correct the cut edge is to find the shortest end of the cut.  See how the folded edge is cut!

 

Find the shortest cut edge and pull the filler single thread.  Start to gently pull this one yarn.

Remember it is not a strong yarn so go carefully, and don’t be disheartened if it breaks.

With the tip of a ripper carefully lift the end of a broken thread and continue pulling.

 

When you get to the end, press to give a clear reveal of the true grain line and re cut the store cut end of the fabric.

Now you have a straight edge with a true grain line.

If the old store cut edge was used, rather than correcting the cut edge, this would be the grain line showing on a finished project.

The fabric would want to stretch and twist with use.  Obviously it would look amateurish.

Take a little time to look carefully at your woven grain lines, you will be much happier with your project.  When staying true to your grain line, the project will be easier to construct and look lovely.

Happy Stitching