I don't cut into yardage until I know what I want to make. I find it harder to store cut pieces than yardage, and I can see the yardage that's available more easily. However I do understand the beauty of being able to dive right into sewing without having to cut first. I just don't think it would work for me. I do sometimes go through my scraps, though, and cut lots and lots of 1.5" strips into lengths for log cabin quilts.