First, check and adjust your pattern for proper fit, follow the pattern's cutting layout, then you're ready to cut.
Your Scissors are your lifeline Your scissors are the most important tool in your sewing kit. Don't scrimp on the quality of your scissors or you'll only be making your sewing experience more frustrating than need be. A good-quality pair of sharp scissors is essential for accurate cutting. There are many types and styles of scissors to choose from, so choose the ones that work best for you. You may want to have more than one pair, especially a cheaper pair for cutting thread, paper and tissue and reserve your best scissors for cutting fabric only. I wouldn't do without my spring-action scissors by Fiskars. They make the job of cutting out much faster and easier.
Some sewers prefer to use a rotary cutter rather than scissors. It takes a little practice to get the hang of using a rotary cutter and more supplies than just a pair of scissors but it's fast and accurate too. Rotary cutters are available with blades in various sizes that need to be replaced or sharpened with a rotary-blade sharpener when they get dull. You need a hard plastic ruler to hold down the pattern and fabric which guides the cutting blade when cutting long, straight edges, plus you need a special mat designed for rotary cutting. It is best to use scissors when cutting tight corners or small curves.
Cut with long, steady strokes along the cutting line using the entire blade of the scissors. On small curves, you will need to use shorter strokes. Although it can be hard to do, try and keep the fabric flat on the table.
Keep the entire length of fabric folded on the table (not draped over the edge) while you cut, so the fabric's grain won't be distorted. If the fabric is too large or too heavy, and your running out of table space, try hanging one end of the fabric over the end of the table and resting on a chair very nearby. Just be careful not to tug or pull on the fabric.
Don't forget the notches. They're important for matching one cut garment section to another. The notches are supposed to be cut outward, as indicated on the pattern, cutting double and triple notches in one unit. Although some experienced sewers prefer to cut straight through notches, then mark them on the fabric with a snip or a chalk mark. Don't cut notches toward the seam because this cuts into your seam allowance and weakens it.
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