This was how I learned back in the 60's & 70's & quilted for many years. Of course the fact that I could do quilting without spending a lot of money was a plus at the time also... It was also the reality that it wasn't a money making proposition w/the time it takes to turn out a handmade quilt. I didn't turn out several quilts a year, tho everyone I did complete was blue ribbon quality and hand quilted.
I really enjoy the process still, but as I age (& still having many years to go) the arthritis is getting me into the new age w/cutters, rulers, quick methods, machine piecing, and longarm quilting. More quilts, but not the same sense of blue ribbon quilting either. I'm trying to make sure that each member of my family has at least one heirloom old fashioned type quilt as well as the newer quick method, all machine type also...
Still tend to use templates & scissors on sampler quilts w/all different blocks - like the Farmers Wife Sampler quilt we are doing for the BOM. Maybe that's why I'm truly enjoying the process so much! And when I do tackle applique anymore, still much more appreciate the finished result of having done it the old fashioned needle turn method.