When it comes to graphics production I am a firm believe in "If you're not cheating, you're not trying." By this I mean what ever method allows you to achieve the desired result in the least amount of time. Called it crutch if you want to, as long as it works for you.

I do encourage experimentation, time permiting, as you may discovering techniques that might be useful in different situations. When your under a deadline is not the time to experiment though.

[Edit] Did you try VladimirJP's script? You can assign the script to a custom shelf for easy access.