I have heard that some use their already cut squares (or whatever size one wishes) at each time they are sewing they use 2 and sew them before their regular project. I made a charm quilt I using 2.5 x 4.5 and it didn't take long until I had a row together. Continue doing this each time you begin sewing and by the time you have your #1 project your charm strips are together also. I hope I am explaining this correctly. I do think the real trick is to always see that you threads are pulled back before beginning to sew.