It depends - like most things which are a matter of experience.

If the fabric is firmly woven then you can cut out more than if it is loose and likely to fray.

Maybe if you trim to 1 inch from the fold - as the pleats are 1 inch wide, so the number of layers are minimised but there is a smooth surface for pressing, no lumps or dips to make an uneven surface.

I have to cut out box pleats - if made in a firm fabric such as cotton, as the tapering sides of each panel are longer than the centre. It is impossible to make the fell lie flat without removing the fabric under vertical tension. Those with a need for less tapering will not have the problem.

Anne the Pleater :ootd: