I always buy more than the instructions call for. I can use the extra, if there is any after squaring, for other projects. I've not had many problems with the cuts at the Jo-Ann's I go to, they at least make an effort to make straight cuts and always cut a bit more than requested; but at Hancock's I've had the most awful cuts and they just go merrily along, cutting everything by "eye". I've asked the manager, who was cutting, to please make sure she cut the fabric straight, she said ok, and cut the most off-kilter piece I've ever gotten. I've even suggested (a few times) that they use a straight edge and they looked at me like I had 3 heads!