It's happened to me, too! But this was an on-line purchase. Before the purchase I communicated with them as to the use and that it would need to be a tight weave to hold up to lots of washing. I even asked them what their thread count was on the fabric but obviously the gal just quewssed. Since they were the only resource with this particular print I ordered 6 yds. When I did get the fabric I nearly cried. It was the worse grade of fabric I've ever seen, the left had salvege had been cut off and the print was not consistent in dye grade. I immediately contacted the company about the probelms and they apologized for not meeting my expectations but they don't give refunds for purchases of under 10 yards. Though I order from a number of reliable resources on-line this was my first and last from them. Lessons we learn - some really hurt the pocketbook!!!!! As for store purchases, I always pull off what I think I'm going to buy and give it a once over and once again once it's cut.