I rarely tear -- unless I suspect a fabric has been cut WAY off grain. I think tearing stretches the fabric, but if you're pre-washing, that would solve the stretching issue. Not everyone likes to pre-wash. I definitely think stores should train their cutters to recognize where the grainline is, so a fabric can be cut straight. It doesn't have to be perfect -- just close, so there aren't waste issues -- for them or us. I've bought lots of "remnants" (for crafts) that no one else would buy at the end of a bolt because it was way off grain. The worst is sheer fabric & I always have to buy extra.