to get a better feel for what you've designed, right click on the quilt. uncheck outline blocks and outline patches. it removes the physical division of the parts and the quilt looks 'smoother'. also, when you want to see how to cut the block, choose file-print-[then the type of cutting] and be sure to check size from quilt. then choose preview. you'll have to zoom in to see what it says unless your eyes are very good. also choose preview when you are using file-fabric yardage. that way, you are not wasting ink and paper just to view the info you might change before the final design. these are just some hints that i found to be most helpful on a regular basis. have fun with it.