since i'm kind of adventurous and kind of, let's say,frugal, i thought if i had any ruler with angular markings what the heck? right so far? then all i would need would be the book. if that has clear directions for the first one, then i have it made in the shade! reading the book, i might be able to judge the amount of waste and the amount of nuisance biases. you're right. it may not be worth it. but speed has it's value also. and maybe with careful cutting i can make use of the waste, not by cutting closer, but by starting with slightly larger pieces so that i'm left with pieces large enough to use again. or something. i would love to see the book. i would have to buy it to do that, unfortunately. unless some kid soul wants to copy one pattern instruction and mail it to me. i have no shame!