Using already torn cloth

[bonjarry]

I would like to do a "simple" simulation of some hanging banners.  But I would like them to already be torn (old and dirty).  Not too much character interaction, just gravity and some wind forces.

This will be my first venture into cloth in Houdini.  I've seen ways of tearing a cloth through simulation, but what would be the best way to do an already torn piece of cloth (with edges and holes)?  Is this something the I could achieve solely through surfacing? or better to do some in modeling?

 

Also, any general tips on cloth?

 

Thanks!