Another (possibly stupid) TT question...

[Calluna]

ETA: sorry just realised thread title is a bit misleading, post refers to terry toweling nappies not toilet training.

I'm planning to use terry flats, but have been told they are often too big for a newborn. I was thinking rather than buying flannelette I could use disposables until s/he fits the TT ones.
In what way are they too big, too puffy or too far down the leg?
How long would I need to buy the disposables for?
Could I cut up some of the TT nappies to make them smaller?
(Would they still wash ok or would they fall apart?)

Sorry if this seems a stupid question, but it can't hurt to ask right?

TIA