Cutting the Pattern

The fabric has a noticeable horizontal stripe which needs to be matched up before cutting.  The nubby texture will be somewhat forgiving and doesn't have to be matched precisely like a plaid, but the lines need to be pretty close.  I'm using the heavier rose-colored thread that runs through the fabric as a guide and making light pencil markings on the pattern pieces to help line them up.

With regular home sewing the pattern pieces include a 5/8" seam allowance, and you can nestle the pieces close together before cutting.  With this method I'll be cutting rectangular shapes for each piece.  Markings are transferred, the lining attached and quilted, and then the excess is trimmed away (using a 1" seam allowance) when ready to fit the pieces together.  Cutting these rectangles and matching the fabric lines will use a little more fabric so I need to be very careful about pattern placement.  I'll have enough fabric, but none to spare - especially as I want to use some of the fabric to make fringe.