Are you using a ruler or a template? Are you using scissors or a rotary cutter? If you're using a template, I would see if I couldn't buy a ruler as soon as possible. If you're using scissors, I would also try to get a cutter as soon as possible, and of course, if you don't have a mat, you'll need one of those. Get the biggest one you can afford. Sometimes you can find these things at yard sales or thrift stores too.
For starching I use the concentrated starch, dilute 50/50 and spray it on pretty good, then I let it "soak" for at least 2 hours, then either air dry or put it in the dryer for a few minutes, then I iron. Starching will help tremendously, I believe.