I agree - we all make our own 'rules' based on the things that are important to us in our quiltmaking. My thoughts are with the newbie. They get hung up on what others say are 'rules' and lose out on the fun part of making a quilt. I believe they will discover what is important to them and other things will improve as they continue to quilt. So, other than the accurate 1/4" seams and safety with a rotary cutter, I try to teach my students to enjoy the process, I explain techniques, make suggestions on fabrics and the details will come along as they learn.