Find the grain
Use the selvedge, weave direction and a gentle tear or thread-pull test on a spare edge to understand the fabric. Do not assume the cut edge is square.
Mark a reference line parallel and perpendicular to the grain before transferring a large pattern. This gives you something to check as the cloth moves in your hands.
Handle stretch carefully
Woven cloth can stretch slightly on the bias even when it feels stable in the straight grain. Avoid pulling the fabric tight while marking or stitching.
If the cloth needs support, use temporary basting or a flat work surface rather than stretching it inside a frame until the pattern is distorted.
Align the finished object
Place the main repeat so its visual direction agrees with the garment, bag or cloth. A technically straight pattern can still feel wrong if it ignores the object’s seams and movement.
Wash a marked or stitched sample before cutting an important piece. The grain check is complete only when the fabric remains usable after its intended care.