If I were making a quilt for myself I would probably use a lot of scraps. I'm of the waste not want not school having grown up pretty poor. I just can't stand to see things wasted or thrown away when they can be repurposed. A TV throw or lap quilt is usually just for cuddling under and not displayed on a bed, so I use a lot of scraps and make some very "scrappy" ones. For my friends and family I usually try to do a nice organized pattern. I go for the easy ones, pinwheels, split rail, and a lot of Jenny's from Missouri Quilt Co. However, everyone has their own styles and preferences and as the saying goes "THERE ARE NO QUILT POLICE HERE"...just enjoy.