Ok, fireworkslover, I've got to see this or one of your other quilts...please?

What you said is just the problem I have.
Andii
If you use strips longer than you need, like the width of your fabric, you end up cutting off the excess within one or two seams later. I'd not try to save fabric by cutting each piece before you sew it on. You have to remember that the fabric will flip over in the end and thus be reversed from how you look at it, when sewing on the line. I think this might be the part that gets people confused.

I'm in the middle of my 4th PP fireworks themed quilt, right now. Each circle of color has 216 pieces! Really, I'm not joking. :lol:[/quote]

Paper piecing is the best way to piece--aside from all the time it takes to remove the paper. Having accurate matching of points makes it so worth the time. The best instructions I have seen are from Carol Doak. I have looked at a few other's instructions and found them to be complicated and cumbersome.
I would definitely switch to machine paper piecing!

Get the Carol Doak book -- "50 Fabulous Paper Pieced Blocks" or something like that. You need to follow her instructions that are included on the DVD that comes with the book. You'll be hooked!

Here's one Andii,
My third paper pieced fireworks quilt titled "Stars Among Bees". It measures about 5' X 6'

Andii,
Here's my first paper pieced fireworks quilt titled "Rings and Stars", made in 2006. This was the first paper piecing I'd ever done. 144 blocks!

I usually remove the paper when I'm sitting in front of the TV. I can listen to the show but don't feel so guilty watching a show if I can actually be doing something quilting at the same time. Actually I only watch maybe 3 shows a week, so I don't feel real guilty. :lol:

I learned to PP from Valori Wells' book titled " Radiant New York Beauties", 14 paper pieced quilt projects. Yes, it took many readings of the instructions before I tried it, but after making one arc I understood the process. This book is great because she includes patterns as well as finished quilts to try and all the instructions for each. I just use the book for a leap off point and go my own way and make up my own design.

beauitful quilts fireworksover

that is breath taking, so beautiful. Penny

thank you very much Rachel, and may you have a blessed Easter. Penny