I have done both on a quilt with great results. I was making a quilt for my cousin when Ike hit Texas. We had no power for 8 days and there was nothing to do so I just went on sewing by hand on the quilt. I made 16 star blocks for the quilt and it made a great story to go with the quilt. I would say do what feels best for you and don't worry about what anyone else might say.