I did Valori Wells pattern "Paprika" which is basically the same - all NY Beauty blocks, just different sizes. I didn't have any problems with the centers. Did you make tiny 1/8" slits all along both the curved edges? HOWEVER, my avatar quilt which is also one of her patterns, had several mistakes in it - but not on the NYB blocks, just on the landscape portions...so was able to 'wing it'. I encourage you to not give up because her patterns are really stunning when completed. I brought the Paprika quilt top to Sparky's in March - "Fear No Red" I call it. Did you see it?