Yes, you are making complete since. When I cut mine I tilted to the left and cut counter-clockwise. And it turned out like Steve's picture for the pattern.
Although, you can experiment on a scrap piece by cutting each way and write down the results you get when you experiment. Just keep your paper in a safe place for future reference.
That is basically how I do it. But I am sure someone else with ALOT more knowledge will have a better answer than I, because my brain doesn't want to function at the moment. Guess, I need more coffee!!!!!
Tonya