I do what hemlock has said. I trace around all my templates on the back of the material. I judge a generous 1/2 inch space around each marked line to allow for both seam allowances. Then I scissor cut out all the pieces. Dont have to be too accurate since we are not using the precise edge to machine sew with.
This really saves on time and mental energy. I love just sewing on the line and have made all kinds of blocks this way. I did one of Gail Garber's fancy curved stars by hand piecing and it was fun and not frustrating.