One "rule" I try hard to stick with is if I make several mistakes in a row - it's time to quit for a while. Related - no cutting if I'm tired.

I have a guideline of prewashing fabric, but I will use some precuts that I won't prewash, so don't consider it a rule.

Like the Pirate's Code, my rules are more guidelines and preferences
since I'm now strictly scrappy, no mostly red or mostly black, they stick out like sore thumbs. I save them up and they go in a red and black scrappy when I have enough.
I don't worry about two same fabrics ending up side by side.
I'd rather bind 409 quilts than press one seam open, I'd rather plan out my pressing directions so I can nest
I use lots of starch and press and nip threads as I go, ulse all my rulers everywhere, and can sit down to any of my machines and get right sized blocks. I don't like trimming to size.

I think I started rinsing and machine drying my fabrics because we always washed new clothes before wearing.
I'm double dang thankful because now that I only have one lung being around new fabric gives me coughing fits.

and I always like hearing and seeing what other quilters do!

Ricky Tims came up with the convergence quilts idea and has a book on it. You can also find YouTube videos on how to make convergence quilts.

My number one rule is to stay organized. That way I know what is what and don't walk into my quilting room to find my project in a 'what the heck did I do with that fabric cut I need next' state.

Rule #2 : Completely clean up and put away everything left over from and used during the quilt just finished, so I can start with a clean slate for my next quilt.

Rule #3: have fun!

One rule that is strictly enforced:
No food or drink in my workroom.

Nope, no rules. I'm the queen of my own quilt. I can do whatever I want the way I want.

Just about my only "rules"...Pre-wash. and always put fabric on grain before cutting.

Everything else is a bit of a free for all.

Watson