Introduction: Learn to Sew: Finding the Grainline on the Fabric
Sandra Betzina teaches you to recognize the selvage edge and the grainline of a fabric. Knowing where the grainline is can be the first step in successful pattern placement.
Step 1:
Pay attention to reading what the fabric suggestion is on the back of the pattern.
Step 2:
Know the difference between a knit and a woven: a woven does not have stretch and a knit does.
Step 3:
The selvage edge is the finished edge.
Step 4:
The cut edge is the edge that has been cut in the fabric store.
Step 5:
On wovens, it’s always a good idea to straighten the cut edge by ripping it.
Step 6:
Usually, you will cut out fabric with selvages together.
Step 7:
Find the pattern piece that has the marked the grain line and put it on the fabric.
Step 8:
The grain line must always be parallel to the selvage.
Step 9:
For more information, read Sandra ’s article, "Cutting Out"