If I want a certain amount of 3" or 2 1/2" squares I just cut strips in that dimension and then subcut to whatever size I want. You are getting a lot of ideas here on this forum so good luck to you and I think everyone has their own way of doing things too. I remember my grandmother would cut cardboard templates out of cereal boxes and draw around them and I would help her cut all the pieces out with scissors. Quilting has come a long way and wouldn't our grandmothers love the rotary cutter.