You specifically cut a motif out thereby "fussy" cutting it. Example. You have fabric that has a certain flower, picture or something in it. You cut around that image (adding 1/4" seam allowance) and use that in possibly the center of the block you are making. When you fussy cut rather than just cutting strips and use the fabric as it comes, you need more fabric than what the pattern would call for. When you get done fussy cutting your material, your material kind of looks like swiss cheese. I hope this explanation is helpful.