I always do mine like the quiltville tute. I never use a measuring tape because they slip and are just not as accurate as laying the fabric on the quilttop through the center, or anywhere but at the very edge. Then I pin ends first, then center, then maybe one in each section if it is the lengthwise strip I am sewing. And I always put the side strips first. I think the "older" lady just didn't put her phrase into words very well; not sure what she meant. If I have enough fabric I use the lengthwise cut of fabric so I don't have to seam, otherwise I do the 45 degree seam.