Calla, there are no rules
, just suggested guidelines! The aim is to use up some of our stash, and avoid additional stash purchases. Just do what makes sense for YOU. The line about 'no fabric to start a top' should probably be re-written to say something like: unless you don't already have anything that will work. The way I've been doing it is shop my stash first but if I buy fabric and immediately use it in a quilt, that's just fine. If I buy anything (FQ, yardage, sheets from thrift store for backing etc.) and I don't really have a specific quilt in mind, I consider that stash building. Sadly, I'm an impulse buyer when it comes to fabric. Having to 'confess' my purchases has put a damper on my compulsion. I consistently delete emails about fabric sales, and JoAnn thinks I don't love her any more. I have a far from perfect record, but WAY better than I have been in previous years. Again, please do what makes sense for you!