There are many ways to cook or clean and it is really all that counts in quilting is what works FOR YOU. You should try different techniques to see what is easier for you to use. I don't pre-wash my fabrics especially with the invention of color catchers. I also do NOT have a W/D in my apt. I have started to cut backwards with my acrylic rulers because it is easier for me being disable. There are many ways to make HSTs. I use EB method but F&P have come out with a new different method. As long as your HST come out to be the accurate size, I don't think it really matters the method you used.