I usually work in strips. I look at all of the pieces that are going to use one color and measure from the seam line to the widest point of the largest piece, and add at least 1/2" for seams. If there are a lot of small pieces I'll cut a strip for those and a wider strip for the larger pieces. Look at the paper pattern. Measure from the seam line to the widest part of the next piece to add. Add width for the seams. When working with strips you will always have the piece covered lengthwise when you flip it. Just be sure to flip before cutting so you can see that you've got the whole piece covered.Otherwise, you'll end up cutting too short and be very unhappy when you do flip it. Always press after cutting.