I do similar to pt quilts, except I do my sides first, then the top and bottom. I suppose you could piece one long piece and then cut off what you need, that is what it sounds like the lady at your quilting meeting meant.
I usually just cut strips and sew together some for the lengths, and some for the top and bottom. I do usually have some leftover, but I cut it up into squares for my scrapboxes, or piece it into the fabric for the back of the quilt.