I had a similar weird experience at Ikea a few weeks ago. They now carry some beautiful fabrics, but more suited to home dec or bags. First we had to hunt down someone to cut the fabric. Not a big deal, but took about ten minutes or more. We had what my daughter wanted, then I had her measure a piece I had found. It was so cute and would have made a great bag. There was less then a yard, maybe about 2/3rds of a yard. She said that they don't cut half yards but since it was the last of the bolt, she called it a half yard and called the person in charge of fabric to make sure. It was ok'd and she said that if they have a problem to call her. So I went on my merry way. Of course there was a problem. And the floor manager came over and said if I wanted it I had to pay for a whole yard. WTH? I told her what the little gal in fabrics has said, but she refused to make the phone call to check. The poor clerk was dumbfounded. The floor manager turned and flounced away. And then the clerk turned to me and with wide eyes says " so do you want it?" Again, WTH? Um, no, I am not paying double what it is worth. I did tell her I understood it was not her fault, but good gravy, give some people a little power and they own the world.
I love Ikea and will still go when I can, but I guess I will not look at small pieces of fabric.
the thing is, I know they will send it to the scratch and dent dept and it will be sold for far less as a scrap. Oh well, whatever, I had spent enough there anyway.