This has really become an issue with buying from big box type stores, i.e., Hancock's, Joanns and Hobby Lobby. This is also one reason I prefer to purchase at an QS, online if I know the fabric manufacturer or someone on this board....I have received as much as a half yard more than I purchased. That is no joke. I actually talked to the manager at one of these big box stores about this situation and was told they cannot afford to give more than the required amount requested by the customer. I then asked him how he thought the smaller internet shops, ebay, etc., were able to always give more to their customers since they didn't have the volumn of big box stores all over the US. Of course he had no answer for me other than they couldn't afford to give each and every customer a tad more regardless of whether the fabric was placed on the board correctly or lined up properly. I truly am astounded by this type of thinking.
A lady purchasing before me wanted 10 yards of a muslin fabric and when it was cut she found well over a yard of it was flawed and stained. The cutter apologized and did not offer to recut the fabric for her but said she'd give her another cut for the amount she wasn't able to use. This was for a wholecloth quilt. The poor customer accepted it but was so unhappy and really so flabergasted she just left with the purchase trying to hide her tears. There was no way she could cut the flaws and stains out and sew on the other fabric to make the wholecloth quilt look acceptable. I felt awful for her. Personally, I would have called the manager and made them recut the entire piece and check for flaws....never would I have purchased that fabric. I think so many people have become so accustomed to inferior service they just live with it. I refuse to do that as it is my money and I expect to get courteous, respectful and good customer service. When I have been unhappy with service and quality I never treat the person rudely but do ask if they would accept what they are doing to myself or others....then I get a manager and quietly speak about the problem. This has never failed me and more times than not the Manager is grateful for my speaking with them and reassured me they will correct the problem/s. Whether they actually do or not I don't know but I do leave with what I want and have paid for in it's entirety. I am telling this story to hopefully help others here to know you do not have to accept something that is not what you are wanting to purchase. I know many of you know/do this but there are still others that do not speak out for themselves. We must all learn to be proactive....it's not rude it is just making sure you are treated fairly and purchasing what you expect. These companies would not be in business without you and they are there to serve you the customer. You never have to be rude or ugly but calmly explain your situation and ask/expect a solution to your problem. That is a win/win for you the customer and the business that wants to stay in business.