The way to get the circle shapes is to use the Uneven Log Cabin block.
As an example, in the picture below the wider strips are 1.5" and the narrower strips are 1". This particular block finishes at 12".
As you see, when you lay them out the unevenness (is that a word?) creates a gently curved effect. You can alter that curve by altering the widths of the strips.
Benartex makes a pre-printed muslin foundation for this block.
http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/sto...3&Item_ID=2923
This foundation stays in so there is no dreaded paper removal process.