OOOOHH, all of this back and forth about preciseness is making my brain itch. I know I am probably over-doing it, but I always buy too much. Rarely do I buy 1/2 yard of fabric. Actually I can only remember ONCE buying half-yard pieces for the first grand daughter's graduation quilt. I shopped around for lots of pinks in many values and tones. Other than that it's always been at least a yard. Usually 2 or 3 yards.
And as for the fabric being off grain, I suppose I've not reached that height of professionalism yet. I'm too old to worry about if my pieces are a little off grain. And that is why some of your quilts are so gorgeous and mine are so-so.
When I made garments (and taught garment construction), being on -grain was of utmost importance. When I quilt, it's for relaxation. I'm not going to stress myself out if things are a little wonky. I hope I'm not cast out of the "club" because of my confession. :lol: