Jim's Gem

Yes!! When I was a kid I went to the 5 and dime store or something like that and they used those machines that clipped the fabrics.

PaperPrincess

Might be just an urban legend but it's my understanding that the reason why the meters were phased out of use is because they were regulated under the US Dept of weights and measures and had to be officially calibrated every so often, for a fee. If an inspector came in and one of the machines was measuring incorrectly, there was a hefty fine incurred.

sak658

I remember those machines, and the stores were called Dry Good stores. Also loved the five and dime stores too. Grew up with both of those...Pretty close to the dollar stores of today. But everything came from the good ole USA...

quiltmouse

I was in JA a few days ago, purchasing flannel. It was a new bolt. The end of the bolt was torn on grain, and almost 3" off at the selvedges. The clerk started to cut it to match & I had to say, no, please, just line those up & cut the other end & I'll be good.

**insert shakes head smiley here**

rdorminy

I prefer the rip to the cut. I learned the hard way when I first started quilting not to buy the yardage listed. Instead I always add 1/4 yard more and then rip the ends at home. I don't let the ripped pieces go to waste though. Cut them up into squares or stripps. Works for me.

sewingladydi

Me too

ConnieNana

I just finished a top using a Moda pattern that said to snip and rip...to put the center panl on the straight of grain. I still think it is a good idea. My lqs uses a straight edge and lines it up on a cutting board.
Connnie

lucniak

my mom always did

ns

I remember the rip days, and I do some of my fabric that way. But I cannot remember JCPenney having fabric.

qwkslver

I was told to do that at my first job at the Piece Goods Shop many moons ago. I found it awkward to do but the folks buying the fabric seemed to like it.