The only time I tear fabric is when I need L-O-N-G lengthwise strips for sashing or borders. Other than that, I match up the selveges, and like others have said, the cut, or even torn edges across the width don't always match. But tearing blocks will most certainly distort them.

tear off the selvage edge, never try to find grain by the selvege edge or by stretching fabric. tearing should be enough to get you square, though you could still use the two ruler method and use your torn edge as your guide.

Very good advice Prism. Thanks!

I would never tear cross grain or across the width of the fabric. It's not surprising that fabric torn that way is uneven. I tear only lengthwise to make borders, and allow enough in the torn width to trim in case the edges are too ragged. Even so, sometimes fabric will behave in weird ways. All depends on quality of the weaving, I believe, which really translates into the quality of the fabric.

This was how I was taught to do it.

Agreed - no matter what you do the fabric must hang straight

Thanks for all this information. I am not an expert at quilting, but I have noted that being square is a better "whole" idea, than trying to make it a 'perfect" one. Being 1/4 inch off is miraculous from my standpoint!! I would be thrilled to get this close sometimes.

I used to think that I had to settle for being "close". But after watching some videos, and reading this forum, I have discovered that with a little extra effort, with cutting, sewing and ironing (pressing, not ironing) I have gotten much better. The extra effort up front will save time in the long run. Now when I finish a block it is square and not skewed to one side. Still not "perfect" but getting closer.

On grain isn't very important in quilt making. Make sure the fold hangs straight, fold in half again and cut.

This is what I have been told too - not always easy, but gotta keep working at it - more like working in the center with the selvages and fold, then work it to the ends.