Applique scares me. I have no talent for machine applique. I love to hand sew, just need to learn the best way to prepare the pieces. I love to paper piece and can do any pattern with that technique. I did storm at sea for son's wedding, did new york beauty for stepdaughter. Easy a d accurate with pp-ing, thank goodness! THis year, I'm going to tackle a lone star, too. Those diamonds look like a challenge. But maybe starch will save me....?