I need to ask a seamstress a question.

[Ilsa]

I have a question about sewing a dress that I am about to cut out. I am cutting it out on the bias, but it isn't the true, 45 degree angle because the fabric is only 44-45" wide. I had to angle the bias back a little to get the length I want.

Anything special I should know? Should I back off cutting it out this way since the "give" isn't truly vertical and just cut it out along with the regular lay of the fabric? The fabric is a cotton pique, lovely indigo faux silkscreen design on white.

[eleny]

1. About how much of a bias angle is it now?

Is it close to the 45 degrees?

And I suppose that the pattern doesn't have to be matched at the seams like a stripe would need. Just wondering about that.

[Ilsa]

2. I moved it about 30 degrees versus 45. I think I'll be okay with the drape

and how the fabric rises and falls for the bust-waist-hips. It's just scary for me whenever I start cutting!

The true bias of the fabric was at 45 degrees, I think.

[eleny]

3. The drape is what concerned me

Cotton doesn't always like to give too much. I hope some of the people who sew a lot weigh into this thread.