6" wide by 10" long

Yes, the terms may be necessary, if the fabric is directionally patterned and if you are not going to give other, more specifc instructions regarding placement/orientation of the 10"x15" rectangular "pattern" on the fabric. (i.e. which way should the fabric's pattern run on the 10" x 15" pieces.)

To me, if someone gave instructions that you should cut 2 pieces 10" long by 15" wide, and did not give other specifics, I would assume that the pieces should be cut with the 10" parallel to the selvages ("long"), and should be cut with the material folded finished side in, with selvages mated.

It is one thing to be as concise as possible, but you do not want to lose clarity for your reader.

my .02 cents..

me

That's the only reason I could think of. It doesn't make a difference in some of these patterns, but I'll leave them in when there's a possibiliy. Thanks!

The cutting directions may be necessary also in terms of fabric grain. Lengthwise grain has less stretch than crosswise grain, and depending on the project, it might be important that the 10" cut edges have the most stability.

Doreen in Alabama

That's probably right, but for a beginner (and fairly simple projects implies inexperienced sewers) it might not be obvious. In this case, I'd be more inclined to explain it as jusme has done, even though it would be wordier.

Cheers, Liz

There's typically more stretch on the crossgrain than the lengthwise grain of most fabrics, so if there is a need for stretch or stability, the grain direction may be important.

However, "long" and "wide" don't mean a whole lot to me in this instance... I'd sooner specify a 10x15" rectangle, lengthwise grain in the 15" direction. But then you've got to explain grain...

Kay

In all honesty, I was really trying to cheat out on having to explain grain... (laughter)

me