All of the above are all very good advice. Each quilter has their own way of doing things. For me I always wash my fabrics before using to let it do any shrinking or bleeding before I put it in my quilt. I always measure twice so I only have to cut it out once. I keep cheap fabric around and always make a practice block of any new pattern as some patterns can be off,as I learned the hard way when using one from a magazine. Take your time and enjoy and don't be afraid to try something new.