I'm on my third one of her patterns. I read her patterns with a grain of salt. Then do what I figure is easiest for me. I cut out the pieces more like strip piecing. After quilting for 40 years, you get a feeling for what works for you. I've not taken any of her classes. It would drive me crazy to do it her way. But I love paper piecing. I read the directions until I understand what it says. Keep plugging away.