welcome from Blue Springs, MO. I would suggest starch starch and more starch. it will make cutting more accurate and piecing easier. took me a couple of projects to figure that out. I would also suggest just jumping right into what ever project you are wanting to do. the best way to learn is by trial and error sometimes. and get well acquainted with your frog (seam ripper) you will be talking a lot over the years. This board is the best place that I have found for advise and inspiration. And help finding cool patterns.