I have found that using a 'point trimmer' tool helps to trim those points off before sewing. The one I have been using is by Marti Michel. Fons and Porter have one and so does Judy Martin. There is also one in every copy of Quiltmaker magazine that you can copy to make your own template. It is in the center where they have the basic lessons. I have just started using the point trimmer and I love it.