In this case, I would leave the fabric open the full width, and fold it accordian style from one end to the other. You can lay it on the table and use it from one end to the other. If your table is small, lay the fabric on two chairs and pull it onto the table from one end. You could cut it into smaller, more managable pieces, but you will waste some fabric. If you are going to wash it, do it before you cut any off. That will reduce the amount of fraying. I usually sew the ends with a line of zigzag to reduce fraying. Good luck. Quilting is a great pastime.