Marcia,
When working with really small pieces I highly recommend starching the heck out of everything and pinning pinning pinning. From what I can see it doesn’t appear to be distorted, as much as some appear to be not properly aligned and others appear to be too big/small? Do you have a picture of the back seams so we can have look there? Also, sometimes we have to find a method that works well for us, even though we may want to use something else to make it easier, that might not always be the best way to achieve the results we want. Have you tried other methods other than your accuquilt? I know for myself I try to make a sample block the way the pattern says, if I don’t like the results I stick with what works best for me, even it if means more work.
I love the reds and neutrals you picked, I can’t wait to see your completed quilt. I love Bonnie’s quilts but have not done one yet, I just live vicariously through everyone else’s quilts!