Don't despair-just keep perservering. G'mas flower gardens are a journey. "Take time to 'smell' the flowers." I have been handpiecing one for "awhile" and I'm not in any hurry. I carry it in a small pouch when I go somewhere I think I'll be sitting awhile and my garden is growing steadily. Enjoy the process and it will come together. I agree that you might enjoy it better with a "path".