I simply use cheaper, thinner grade copy paper. Yes, I do replace my needle more often when doing a lit of paperpiecing

I have seen so many beautiful blocks that I would love to make but I avoid them. I made one pp item - the center for my DH quilt. I used some thin tracing paper and it seemed to work but I had the worst time trying remember the positions of the fabric vs. the paper.
Felt like I was sewing backwards!:D I guess like with most things it just takes practice.

I number everything and line the fabrics up in sewing order. The design wall helps keep partial blocks in order. Took awhile for me to develop my organization of sewing order.

Nexxus, did you make a final selection on you center block pattern?

I changed my mind I am going to go with this pattern: http://quilting.about.com/od/quiltpa...uilt-Block.htm

That is beautiful. Colors?

Well I was thinking grey where the cream is, two different shades of teal in replace of the green and yellow or purple where the purple is.

Love your center block! Everything about it is beautiful!

Nexxus, that sounds perfect. If I get to vote....go green. Purple and teal is a beautiful color combination.

Zzmom...thank you!

Hello ladies, I am finally catching up. I am glad to be part of this group. I have read all of the posts and love all of the center blocks that have been posted.
Now for me.i am Melinda's mom. I am 64 and have been sewing since I was about 8 or 9. I have been quilting since I was in my mid 20's. I do long arm quilting but it is all free hand. No computer. You have all been very generous with your offers of help with postage and if I find myself I need of help with it I will ask.
Dragonfly Nana I agree that paper piecing is trying to sew backwards. For some reason my mind will not compute it.
I have not decided on a center block as of yet nor my colors. When I get there I will post pictures.

Melinda - I love the block you have chosen. I agree with Alikat - purple and teal is a great combination and will pop right off a gray background.