This was the FIRST quilt I ever made- so just have patience and it will be fine! I used steam a seam 2 also, and blanket stitched every piece. I did some thread painting, too. I was fortunate enough to buy my fabric from my LQS at 40% off, and it was McKenna's line she designed for the pattern. It was so much fun!! The fabric does have a nice tight weave, but if you have larger pieces, I did use the interfacing method, too. It has been washed several times as my Aunt that it was gifted to , has a large long haired cat. I did purchase McKennas Bella Garden kit that I found a small sale on, but they are VERY pricey. If you but your own fabric, I suggest printing off the original samples from the Manufacturers web site to mimic them as closely as possible.