katybob

I usually cut a 2-1/2" strip when starting a paperpieced DJ block. Any leftovers from that strip except the tiniest pieces can almost always be used in another block.

berryberry

I've been doing block of the week with each block the name of a book in the bible. We are up to block 29-Joel. It's very similar to a farmer's wife or dear Jane sampler quilt.

My suggestion is to precut several of your blocks at home, take the pieces with you and do the sewing. Really after 29 blocks, there is no common size strip for the blocks. Each block finishes the same size, but the fabric cuts for each has been different.

klgls

No advice - just good luck!

Traditional Quilter

I must admit I'm a little confused -- you say you are going to PP but you want your fabric to be portable. Won't you need your machine to PP? That isn't very portable. In any event, check the block tips in your software. I, too, am planning to make a DJ, but I'll be hand piecing and applique. I have just spent four evenings studying the software and there are some wonderful hints. For me right now I think the freezer paper method is going to work best for me, so I plan to print out the pattern on freezer paper, cut out the templates and then iron them onto the fabric. At this point they could either be machine or hand pieced. After I cut out the templates, I can take them with me to stitch where ever. Good luck with your quilt. Keep us posted.