You are so right! Things have really changed since I learned to sew... in the '40s.. in the fourth grade. Not quilting. Just garment sewing. I am a self taught quilter so I didn't learn much. Back then, if I remember correctly, fabric was more on grain than now. Now, often I just tear the length or width of fabric to find the grain and even it to that grain line. Flannel must be washed before using because of the shrinkage and if it's off grain and won't tear easily, I just even it up the best I can and go on with life.
My quilts never went near a quilt show, but they are on hundreds of beds! I make 100s of charity baby quilts these days. I love to quilt and I love the little quilts, also. I hope they are used to pieces.
Enjoy!!