Guess it would be smart of a shop person cutting to ask:)Or if they only prefer one way post it on the door before you even go in:)It also could be an 'area' thing....I honestly have never seen a ripped anything other then wool here in Missouri. There is no reason for anyone to take offense to what one prefers or not. It's not to be taken personally on any account !for me to be offended in going into a LQS where kits run over $100, fabric is anywhere from $8.50 to $12 and they 'ripped'. To expect what in 'my opinion' respect at the cutting table. I have bought quite a bit of fabric in my shorter quilting years and have come home w/my whole yard and cut straight! I would refuse to buy ripped fabric. Then again, I love starch, I don't prewash for I like the crispness of it all...frayed edges would drive me insane!:) This also could be a generation of preference. Very interesting in itself....a forever non ripper:)Skeat