when i begin a large quilt, i make ONE block to test the directions for errors, then if i like what i see and the directions are good, i cut all the fabric for all the blocks. then i chain each block following each step of the dirrections....in other words, i do the same step over and over and over again for each block, then move on the to the next step. it does get a bit monotonius (sp?) but it does keep me going because all the fabric has been cut and i don't want to waste it!! i usually try to do bigger blocks 9 to 12 inches with pieces in the 2 1/2 to 3 inch size. 20 to 45 blocks will give you a very nice sized lap to snuggle sized quilt.
oh yea, i usually have 4 or more projects going at once too. one or two biggies and then a couple of mug rugs or table runners that make up pretty quick!!
jodi