Good ideas here I had not thought of. My suggestion is if you decide to cut your fabric instead of tear maybe you could take your fabric, mats, cutter to your church during the week - borrow a empty room where you could spread it out and work with more space.

I also would rip that long of a border.

Thanks for all the suggestions. When I get the material, I think I'll try ripping. I've not tried that before so nervous about it. . . but it sounds like several of you do it with success.

I didn't get the material after all. Disappointed :( I had called my LQS ahead and ask about the white but I didn't think to ask her how much. She only had about 2 yards and I need 8 1/2 or so for the Bridal quilt.

I'll certainly use your suggestions though...won't be wasted. I live in a very rural area and my next quilt shop is an hour away...but my grandbaby is worth it. :)