I've made raggy quilts for a few years now. I have used all different size squares; including 5" squares. However, my favorite size is now 8.5"; I lose less fabric with this size square. Also, I also clip a few rows at a time. I have arthritis sp? and if my DD doesn't have time to clip for me, I can only clip a little at a time. Good luck! And if you need extra help, just PM me.
As a sidenote, guess I've been lucky; I don't prewash and have never had a bleeding problem. Also, have never had trouble washing for 1st time in my washing machine. Of course, I do have an extra-large tub.

Thank you for offering your support. I'll sure PM you if I find I need some help. :)

i'm getting ready to make a rag quilt duplicating the look of a triple irish chain quilt. for that reason, i'm starting with very small squares...4 inches. i usually use 6 inch squares, but in order to make this look like the traditional pieced triple irish chain does, i had to make the squares small. i must be nuts!