I'm reviving this thread because I'm hoping for more advice!
We normally carry only 44" fabrics... but one of the sales reps talked me into ordering a few bolts of their basic budget quilt backings.
And... well, are they ever wrapped crookedly. So much so, that, in all honesty, I'd have to allow an extra FOOT on every cut, just to assure that the customer gets the (good) amount they paid for.
So... is this an instance where torn really WOULD be better than cut? I could throw in, say, an extra 6" to make up for the torn edges. It would be better than giving away an extra foot.
But, of course, if the customer doesn't pre-wash the fabric, it will still appear very warped. (And do you suppose that everyone pre-washes their backings?)
What have your experiences been with regards to backing purchases? Do stores ever unfold it? (With the three folds in the fabric, crooked wrapping is multiplied.)
What's the right thing to do? I'd really appreciate everyone's thoughts.