Opinion Please

[Dave Monk]

I have a portrait to cut that is 18 x 14 which way would you run the grain? Vertical or horizontal. I usually run the grain in the longest  direction. What's your take? dave

[Vott1]

I usually run grain vertical, unless I'm trying to get a special effect out of the grain (like ocean waves, or a persons hair). 
What kind of portrait are we talkin'?

[MrsN]

I typically run the grain with the long dimension of the piece, although I have done other methods for either art or necessity.

What kind of wood are you using? 

[Scrolling Steve]

I never really thought about it ......just went back and looked at some work and vertical wins !

[JTTHECLOCKMAN]

I would run with long dimension.

[Dave Monk]

I'm going to start cutting a family portrait. Stack cut 1/4" oak and birch. dave

[Lucky2]

Dave, it all depends upon the way the pattern is glued onto the wood. 

Len

[Ron Johnson]

It all depends on subject matter, grain and colour of wood.

[amazingkevin]

I like the effect of on an angle myself