Nicky, I agree, those instructions are indeed very helpful. I have been pinning and basting and am still having the shifting problem so the cause really does have me stumped. I can only surmise that I am somehow moving the blocks when I pin, so I am being more attentive to that process and still fiddling with settings on my machine. I love my sewing machine but if I had one critique of the machine, shifting fabric is it. I'm not sure if it is user error or what - when it comes to boo-boos, I tend to blame my own inexperience first!
I'll keep fiddling and I am sure I will get it figured out. The walking foot definitely helps - I just have to get my pinning and foot pressure dialed in!
I am excited, hubby has today off work so I am hopeful to get a really good jump on my California block! Wheee!!!