Hi Sue,
That applique class sounds awesome! I had a quick look at Nancy Amidon's web page, what gorgeous work. I really envy you. Keep me up-to-date won't you.
I haven't done a lot of machine paper piecing but what I did do I really liked. My friend, Chris, did a Storm at Sea that way and it was absolutely stunning. Another friend is hand piecing her Storm at Sea and its coming along beautifully. Snap! I'm up to little boats in my FMQ class with Lori Kennedy - only 'doodling' them so far though and haven't started the machine sample as yet.
Happy quilting,
Cheers, Mary