THe second question
The pattern instructions are to cut all fabrics into 6.5 X 3.5 bricks and then assemble into vertical strips, offsetting each strip by 1/2 a block.
Is there any reason I can't make strip sets and cut into 3.5 inch strips? (Most all the fabric I have is fat quarters.) By reversing the strips and mixing them up, wouldn't you get a good mix? (Maybe I didn't say that right. I hope you understand what I mean.) It seems like it would be easier and more consistent.
Depending on what I find, I was planning on buying "grunge" type fabrics. My favorite outlet had some Timeless Treasures flannel when I was there last. It was great fabric. It's a drive over there, though. Their minimum cut is a yard, and I don't have plans to make any more flannel quilts so I'll end up with flannel scraps.
bkay