My first PP I cut the pattern in sections and cut the fabric larger than the sections.
The I used an uncut copy of the pattern and sewn the sections and then trimmed the fabric. Once you get the hang of it you will not have to cut and measure, you will be able to just look at the fabric and tell that it will be big enough.
The first piece of fabric is laid down right side up, all of the others are sewn on right side down and flipped over.