Hi Vickiec, I'm using just the book. It's 'doable' but I bet it's easier with the software. If I can't figure out a pattern from the book I look here for tips as well as
http://thatquilt.blogspot.com/ I use a mixture of paper piecing and applique as well as occassionally measuring and cutting with a ruler. I had been looking at BOMs for a couple of years and thought they looked expensive. I'm using my stash, but mine is not as planned as some of the others are doing (i.e. Civil War fabrics, only blue and white, etc.). Yes, it's addictive. So dive right in!!