Expert: Sharon Vogel - 8/15/2008

Question
I have the hardest time cutting sheer fabric even.I have ruined a lot of it by not knowing how.What is the simpliest way to cut sheer fabric?
                              Barbara

Answer
Dear Barbara,
I am not quite sure what type of sheer fabric you are attempting to cut.  If it is fabric for a garment, a lot of pinning would hold the pattern pieces securely to the fabric.  A very important piece of equipment for sheer fabric is very, very sharp scissors.  Scissors with even a tiny bit of dullness will "chew" the fabric, not cut it.

If you are cutting fabric for sheer curtains, you might try using a rotary cutter, again very sharp as in "brand new blade".  Determine your required length and mark your cutting line.  Another piece of equipment I have found to be great for straight lines and holding fabric securely is a metal yardstick.  You can find these at a hardware store.  They don't bend and the weight is great.  You can place the edge of the yardstick on the marked cutting line and slice across with the rotary cutter.  You will need a rotary cutter matt underneath your fabric.

I hope I have been helpful.  Write again if you need more information.

Good luck and happy sewing,
Sharon