I tear my fabric too. I have had fabric cut by sales staff at stores and when I get it home there's always less material because the person cutting could not cut straight. If the material is ripped then at least you'll be getting the right amount and ironing then cutting the edge is all you need to do after washing.

Namom, I sent you a pm, email me for more info and photos. The pattern was out of a Thimbleberry book Guide for Weekend Quilts and I just used baseball fabric. The quilt was called Bedtime story, I don't know if the block has a name.

I have always ripped fabric and then cut off the frayed threads. I began sewing 50+ years ago making clothing and drapery. My grandmother cautioned about finding the straight of grain. Have always wondered why quilters never bother with this very important step.
Further, ripping always give a much truer length. Most places add an extra inch for the pulled threads. Try this. Rip across a piece of fabric on both ends; then measure what you have. Bet it's less than you paid for.

I actually prefer that my fabric be "ripped" At least I get to see how far off grain it is. I also always sacrifice about 1/2" when I first cut. I have so much fabric I don't think it matters in the grand scheme of things.

I do some tearing of long pieces, especially for borders.But like washing your fabric first or not. there are people on both sides of that issue.

Always a bonus when you fabric is on grain!

No No No,
Did you say anything I would have asked her to cut it if not I would have left it there.
OOOWWWWW YUCK :shock:

I went to a new store today to get some canvas for my mother's trailer and the girl there ripped the fabric. I could almost hear the whimper come out of my throat when she did that.

I am 60yrs old and when in high school our Home Economics class always ripped the cotton fabric and yes it follows the grain.....best way to square up a block. Iron the edge if you think it is distorted. Ripping is not good for all fabrics such as knits, furs, for example.

Amen. Either cut it of forget it.