the quilt as you go is very easy, my friend and I just finished one ( quilt ) and donated it toProject Keeping Cadance and now are making one for childrens' miracle network. I like to leave a little more than a 1/2 inch around block that way if your blocks vary a little it won't matter. it really is easy, if you can't afford to send out your quilt to be quilted this is the way to go and it is fast. try it you'll like it good luck