To the OP's original question about the edges being so far off once she straightens the fold to make her first cut.... It is all dependent on how the fabric is folded on the bolt (done at the manufacturer). I have had situations where I have lost as much as 2" once I straighten things out and I have had situations where it was as little as 1/4". This is on cut fabric. I order most of my fabric on line and it seems they all cut. I have not gotten any that was ripped, even wide backs. I will rip LOF for borders unless it is a border print, then I will cut following the print. I will also rip wide back as long as I know I have plenty of extra.