I work at the major retailer. Most of the people that work in the fabric department would never think of cutting anything but as straight as they can get it. You just have to nicely explain why it is better to "nip" the fabric so you can tear it straight. It would actually save the company money if everyone of the associates would put the shears down except for nipping the fabric where she wanted to tear it. Yes I am a quilter and used to sew for the public. (quilts). We all know quilts need to be cut straight don't we? Love to all you quilters and "needlers"! Eileen