First - in my mind the finished size means minus the seam allowance......unfinished includes seam allowance. So, why would you need to know the finished size of a unit of the block during construction? To be accurate in completion of that block one needs the unfinished correct measurements of each unit......I am not in my sewing room now, but I do believe, for example, Eleanor Burns will give you measurements as you go.......I guess I just check as I go just by adding 1/2" to whatever finished size would be. Ex: 3 - 2 1/2" squares sewn together.......2+2+2=6(finished) +1/2 = 6 1/2".........