I always look for the size of a quilt before I start and the size of the block. Sometimes the length is almost 20 inches longer than the width and I don't like that. The second thing is the size of the block: no 16" blocks on a twin or a lap size quilt. I always like to get a copy of the pattern and then I read it carefully making changes that I think need to be on it. I go through my stash looking to see if I have all what is needed and I lay them on top of each other for color selection. I test a piece of the fabric if I think it will bleed, I do not prewash normally. I do use precuts all the time but there is generally a background so I have to check the various colors for that. I start out with a clean machine and 6 full bobbins, a good book for me to listen to and then I start. My rituals for quilting.