Need some help...

[Valerie in WA]

I'm making a table runner with some Mary Englebreit fabrics.

I have three prints that I want to cut into squares to set on point. Two of the three prints have a definite 'upright' orientation, so in order to look right, I'm going to have cut them on the bias, already on point, so to speak, KWIM? Will that work? Is there something I can use to stablize it so it won't stretch as I sew it? Like maybe interfacing? Or fusible web?

I also have two prints that are 'checkerboard,' one black & cream, the other red & cream. I want to use the black checkers for squares on point also (sort of as setting squares between the prints). If I cut them on the grain, then set them on point, the checkers will be on point. Will that look right or should I bias cut them as well? I'm thinking they should be bias cut, so that they 'level' the visual picture.

I want to use the red checked for the border around the whole thing. I think I need to cut it with the grain, right?

TIA for your help!

[SewCrafty]

I'm bumping this so CJ and other's can see it.

I don't know about the cutting part, but I do know that using a light weight fusible web or interfacing is the way to go to stop any stretching of the fabrics cut on the bias. HTH

[homesteadmamma]

You could also use starch. I've found though that if you sew slowly and press properly once sewn, you don't have all that much trouble with stretching.

I agree with Dee, you can use fusible web as well.

I don't work with material that is checkered so I can't answer your cutting question either. The only time I've used checkered is to cut strips for my charity quilts. I find checkered material very hard to make it look "right" in anything I've tried sewing with it.

[Valerie in WA]

Well, I'll give it a whirl! Thanks for answering.