When I am ripping I try to ask myself, "Am I having fun?" If the answer is no then I find something else to do or let the imperfections be. After all, quilting's supposed to be fun not frustrating and stressful. If I have to be perfect at it, then its too stressful. I believe totally in the supposedly Amish mantra of only God makes perfect things.Relax and enjoy! No one will ever notice those slight errors after the quilt is quilted