I have a couple phone books like Bonnie Hunter uses but I also have tissue paper you can buy in packages of 20 or more that are 20"x 20" (some 20x30). I kpaid maybe $2 for the package at the discount dollar store. the cheapest copy printer paper can often be purchased for $5.99 and usually has at least 500 sheets in each package. You can start with any shape you want. I love when there's no rhyme or reason. It's your quilt to do with as you want. Start with a small scrap or a large and any direction from anywhere on your foundation. You also don't need a foundation for a crazy quilt!