Thimblebug6000 and I do the same thing. Grab the scissors and slice off 1/4 inch. I also use a rotary cutter and one of my cutting rulers. Many of the gadgets are very helpful and usually save time, but are not really "necessary", just more convenient, and likely faster and more accurate.
For me quilting is the enjoyment of the process. I do become somewhat possessed with sewing blocks together and have to remind myself it is the process that I enjoy, not the number of projects I complete.
amh