Boy, all this is really informative! When I was new to quilting I thought I needed every new notion that came along...now that I am more experienced I find that the "basics" are what I use the most!
Years ago (before Gypsy Grippers) I bought a suction-cup handle for my rulers...and quickly found out it was more trouble than help. My favorite notion is a little thread nipper that has a notch in one blade, making it a great little ripper, too. I tied it to my FMQ frame with a ribbon to keep it handy!