Cutting out a pattern for knit fabrics is similar to cutting out a woven. Since most knits stretch on the cross grain, we want to make sure that the selvage is carefully folded so that the fabric is not distorted.

To make sure the fabric is on grain, measure the selvage to the fold in several areas. That way we know for sure that the pattern and garment is on grain (will lay nicely when worn).

If you are using a ribbing, you can also fold a rib. This is an easy way to make sure you folded the fabric on grain.

In this example, I used a rib as a guide to where I folded the fabric, and then I measured the selvage to fold in several places. That way I was assured that the fabric was folded on grain and that there wasn’t any stretching that would distort the final garment.

I like to use pattern weights. In my earlier sewing days, I used tuna cans for weights and that worked well. I also cut on a self-healing mat and a rotary cutter. It really makes cutting out patterns a breeze.

If you don’t have those supplies on hand, you can always use pins and scissors. Do a test and to ensure that your pins do not make holes in your fabric. In that case, you need to purchase ball point pins.

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