Boy, have I got a lot to learn! And could use some encouragement...
 

I know I'm in the right spot. This block is for my first ever "real" quilt. I've made little things before but this will be an ambitious project for which I will need you all to keep me on track. This block was my trial run and as you can tell, needs a lot of adjustment with points and all. It's for a dorm room quilt for my gd and thank goodness she's just a junior in high school. She picked the pattern and fabric... I love the fabric and not real keen on the pattern... but we all do whatever for our grandbabes. Wish me luck and send some of your talent muses my way... I'm sure going to need all the help I can get. Thanks for looking...

You sure jumped in deep on this one. I have been quilting for several years and am not sure I would try that block.
You go girl.

I think you chose a very challenging pattern. Pinning is extremely important especially where the seams join. Patience and experience makes it easier and better. I still don't get all my points perfect. Enjoy the "quilting" ride and learn as you go. Lots of wonderful experienced quilters here to help. Stick with it and you will have made a very beautiful quilt and a very happy GD!

Try to keep the outside edges of the block on the straight of the grain. That always helps me.

That block looks very difficult! What's it called--I was wondering if it was available in a paper-pieced pattern because that would make it much easier. I love the background fabric with the black.

Paper pieciing would be the way to go, plus use spray starch or sizing on the fabric BEFORE doing any cutting

Wow! I haven't made a quilt yet....but still playing with squares and rectangles. Although I love the triangle quilts, diamond quilts and star quilts.....they are beyond my comfort zone! Thank you for sharing.....because I know this "wealth" of experience on QB is going to jump in and guide you along the way. In the meantime, I will stay tuned to pick up the advice also.

You started on a difficult block. Good luck.

I agree, your first quilt needs to be simple, mine was a nine patch!

Wow I give you lots of credit! Your doing great but i do agree that paper piecing would make that block soooo much easier. I would just hate to see you get discouraged on your first "real" quilt. Talk to your LQS and see if they have a paper piecing class coming up soon. You won't regret taking the time to learn to do it that way. And I'm pretty sure you could find that block as a paper piecing pattern.