I'm working on a very similar YBR for a friend for Christmas. It's my go to easy pattern. If you look on my profile in my Picture album there are pics of at least two that I made - I think this is my fourth. I like to use the smaller (2 1/2 strip) and then a larger (4 1/2) border instead of the big 6 1/2 unless I am using a very large scale print. I usually don't use the same border/backing, but if I do I buy an extra yard if it is wide, or 1 1/2-2 (depends on quilt size) of the backing. I still consider myself a beginner since I screw things up often even if I am on my 16th? quilt! I always allow enough fabric to miscut at least one strip just for insurance.