What an awesome quilt top ! I'm sure you are going to whip this out in no time. My instructor advised at least 2" on each side as well,But honey let me tell you you should be an instructor . If you can do this with your 1st quilt I will be very anxious to see the ones that follow. I am a pretty new quilter myself from Rio Rancho,NM and have made three or four quilts now but can't hold a candle to yours.
Congratulations on the good work.