I agree to rip, but you may want to wash first. I worked in a fabric store and this what we did with large yardage pieces.

I also do my large pieces this way, especially borders.

I love these questions that you are posing. I like reading the different methods that people use and have gotten many ideas how to do things that have given me difficulties.

I'll confess I am a "ripper" too. I like to take an extra wide seam when piecing long lengths of backing fabric (1/2 inch) so don't usually have to trim off the distorted edges. For borders I just make sure to allow an extra 1/4 to 1/2 inch or so in width of torn strips, then I get rid of the first 2 or 3 loose threads on the edges of the strips I've torn. I find good quality fabric is easy to tear and doesn't usually even need trimming.

Thanks Janie. I've been quilting for years, but it does no harm to revisit all the basics and look for different ways of doing things from time to time! I've picked up some great tips from the replies.

Caution when ripping. That was they only way we used to cut fabric at the stores, but, back then, we knew the complete and correct fabric content. Only 100% cotton rips clean and even then, some just won't tear right. Do not ever think the cut end is accurate. Fold to match a selvage and have it on a flat surface. It should give you a true 'flatness'. yes, today's selvages can get a bit wonky, but when you put a large section together, most of it will match. I usually give this a light press and then refold it over again (giving the four thicknesses). I clamp the edges and then cut my strips from it. Then I open those more manageable pieces to cut my smaller pieces from. Same principle works for larger pieces for backing. I don't cut those often because I like to do stuff to my backing, so I usually don't use full length pieces (maybe 1/2 length). But, as we have said many, many times, what works for you is the correct way!