I prefer to tear paper off. If I plan to leave it in I would not use paper but another thin material like specially designed thin fabric with blocks printed on it or a similar thin fabric or interfacing. I find leaving it in does add weight. If you do use paper set you stitches very small. I found this the most help full. Also every tiny little piece doesn't need to be pulled out. It does not have to be perfectly paper free on the back to be perfect on the front. I also read that using a light mist spray of water before tearing away paper helps.