I always cut mine at 2.5". If I have a scalloped-edge quilt I cut the strips on the diagonal. I like to use black&white striped fabric because it seems to set off colorful quilts, but if I have a pastel quilt then I use a coordinating fabric. For baby quilts I machine sew both the front and the back, but I much prefer the relaxation of hand-sewing and often do it for fellow quilters.