The best tool for removing that pesky paper is called grandchildren :D. Seriously, their little fingers are perfect sized and once you teach them to not pull from the edges let 'em at it. Nothing makes them happier than helping grammy quilt.

Or use freezer paper instead and not stitch thru the paper in the first place. You stitch right next to the folded over freezer paper (folded on the stitch line). When the block is done, you gently peel the freezer paper off and use it again for the next block.

I know there has been a lot of talk on here about oldtimers leaving the paper on when quilting. I come from a long line of quilters. I've never heard anyone say that any of the quilters left the paper on. For me that is just to much work to risk leaving the paper on. It's not that hard to remove it.

I prefer to tear paper off. If I plan to leave it in I would not use paper but another thin material like specially designed thin fabric with blocks printed on it or a similar thin fabric or interfacing. I find leaving it in does add weight. If you do use paper set you stitches very small. I found this the most help full. Also every tiny little piece doesn't need to be pulled out. It does not have to be perfectly paper free on the back to be perfect on the front. I also read that using a light mist spray of water before tearing away paper helps.