I have done both. But, recently discovered that after I cut everything out and THEN made a practice block that I did not like it and wanted to go in another direction. I learned I will always make a practice block first. I am still working on that quilt and I think that is what put me in a funk of not wanting to quilt. I have made it work and have almost got the top completed. Will finish tonight. I have had to make myself complete this job. Would have just thrown it to the scrap heap if it wasn't a special quilt I am making for my husband using a military type theme. After the top is done I will put it aside and finish a couple of others before going back. But, lesson learned about cutting everything out at once!