Hi, I have made several rag quilts with no batting. I just use two layers of flannel and it is heavy enough. Yes You need to wash and dry your fabric so all the shrinking is done. Sew with 1/2 inch or more seams. I clip the edges about every 5/8 inch apart or a little more. Yes i do the x in the middle of each square. Good luck and show us your results. Those rag scissors are great and your hands won't hurt. I hope we all have not confused you.