Hi SOB - soft ocean breeze,
I use about a 1" seam allowance. I like to alternate one big block with a grouping of a 4 patch block the same size. Though you could use any configuration you want for alternate blocks.
Yes, all the seam ends - the raggedy part - are on one side. That's what give the raggedy effect. Then when all are together I stitch a seam around the outer edges of the quilt to keep it together so it can be used without worry it will fall apart.
Two pieces of flannel sewn together with diagonal stitching from the corners would hold the quilt together without batting.
ali