I'm just learning too, so I got "Stipples Made Easy" adheasive paper to use to practice. Because the roll (9 1/2"x26') is so expensive ($15) and is one-time use, I made a master copy on templar plastic, so I can trace it on tissue paper and do it much more inexpensively that way. I find it is much easier to learn that way. I also make other master copies of other stencils I have that are really for painting but work well for free-motion quilting too. I feel more comfortable following a pattern that doing it freely. And if you don't get right on the lines, no big deal...the paper tears off easily and no marks. Good luck to you both.