In the borders I decide how the directional fabric I am using, will look the best and cut accordingly. That gets cut first. In the quilt, if it is a small print, I will let them turn every which way so the quilt isn't directional. If they are a part of an HST, I evaluate where they will be placed and cut specifically. Do I use a lot of stripes or directional fabric? Not unless I just love the fabric and it is the "just" right color for the quilt I am working.