The first two ladies have given you wise advice. The only thing I would add is regarding #4. I think if you are doing a wall hanging or something not getting a lot of wear and tear, that pressing the seams open gives a smoother look and you don't have to worry about which side the seam bends to. However, if it is something that will be washed often, the side seams are stronger........It would also depend if you are hand quilting or machine quilting......