Brazen, I think you will like fine the DJ software easier then the EQ5. It's very user friendly. Plus you will have all of us who have the DJ software to help you. Most of the blocks aren't that hard. They are just small. With some of the blocks hand sewing might be the way to go. I'm not that great at paper piecing either but I bet I will be by the time I get done with the quilt. :-) I also have never appliqued. But Blue Chicken tute has me believing I can do it. :-) The three blocks I am making for the Blue, White and Gold DJ swap I am piecing as I am use to. They are coming out great. Two of the blocks have gone together really quick. The block with the curves in it is taking a little longer but is still easier then I thought it would.