I have viewed the method without waste and it takes more time and cutting and sewing than the twister. I used to make these pinwheels the old way and it just wasn't fun. I like knowing that I can get something like a wreath or table runner done in less than 90 minutes and have it ready to quilt. The 'waste' is a 2½" block than be easily be used in anything you would want, I like making bowtie blocks with mine.