You really don't need to make so many marks when you make them. When I make mine, I layer the fabric and batting, then sew both ways on the diagonal to keep the layers together. Fold the block in half and mark the darts 1" x 2-1/4". Do this on all four sides on each block. Place two blocks right sides together. I don't clip the darts, just fold them to opposing sides. Sew two blocks together, leaving a 2-3" opening to turn right side out. Be sure to push the corners out as much as possible. Top stitch all around the bowl, closing the opening. It takes about 20 minutes to make a bowl. I use the "Wrap and Zap" batting by Pellon. I purchased mine at JoAnn's. It was regularly $7.99 a bag but I used a 50% coupon. This is also the batting to use if you make potato bags.