Go slow to go fast...a tortoise and the hare kind of thing.
I can reduce how fast my machine stitches...speed control feature...for piecing I set it down about 60-80%. I find that I pay more attention that way. The rhythm of the sewing machine is more relaxing...AND there's way less ripping!
Julie
PS. Totally a starch-o-holic now too. Makes piecing and machine quilting so much easier and accurate!