Ripping is "old school", and was taught in many a home ec class of the 60's. l used to rip my border fabrics lengthwise when l first started to quilt 30+ yr. ago. l ironed the puckered/frayed edges & hid them in the seam allowance. But ripping crossways causes all kinds of problems. ln short, l would ask the clerk at the store if they rip or cut...and state my preference ahead of time.