I can't add anything to this discussion that hasn't already been said, but to say that I recently came across a very pretty quilt pattern on one of the popular sites with free patterns - sorry I can't think which. It appeared to be made with small trip around the world blocks set with sashing and cornerstones. I was delighted to read the pattern and find they'd used "cheater" fabric, because postage stamp piecing is not something I'd want to do. Sadly, the print had been discontinued by the time I found the pattern. I have used panels a few times and would not mind cheater cloth, either, if the outcome looked good. I think your friend didn't necessarily mean her comment to be negative, but I do think she's misinformed about what's what.