I think you did a good job. It was my first time also and I did this block, and sent it on to Candlequilter. I worked on mine off and on for 9 hours. Had paper and fabric all over my sewing room. But I didn't give up. Now she has a tutorial step by step on the board under tutorials. I could have used that when I did mine. Like the last comment square it up and press really well, I think it will be fine...