Hi Emily.
Under the tutorial section, someone has posted a great lesson. Check it out.
I prefer to use freezer paper. I started out doing applique w/ the fusibles like Heat N Bond and Wonder Under. It's only within the last year or so that I decided I would learn how to do it by hand. It takes alot of practice and TIME! Not sure how soon you need your shamrocks. PM me if you need help w/ specifics.
Good luck :wink: