I have done a number of hand pieced quilts. Of course my GMFG is my favorite (you can tell by my avatar). I am new to EPP and am not sure of myself in that process. Stitching by hand seam to seam from the underside it how I have done all my had piecing to date, but I am prepared to start a EPP in the near future. Square are a great way to start stitching by hand. Believe me when I say smaller pieces are better to start with than larger pieces. It is easy to stretch pieces when they are larger. I would not use anything larger than a 2 1/2" square. You will have great control there for a beginner. Have a relaxing cruise. BTW check with your cruise activity director. They may have a sewing machine there you can use.