i don't starch or use fusables of any kind when hand piecing- generally i use sharps or milner needles- John James most of the time- the size depends on the thread i am using.
if you need help with thread/needle sizes--visit the Superior Thread web site- they have free charts showing what needles to use with what threads---weights, sizes, differences.
pre-washing fabrics helps soften them up-making hand piecing easier too. i'm working on a Jenny Beyer quilt by hand too
the moon glow quilt. I love her patterns/designs- and i love to hand piece