I seem to get caught up in Blocks of the Month, they give me lots of practice to try different methods out. If you find you need practice, much like me you can try the Aurifil Designer's Series hosted by
Pat Sloan. Pat interviews each designer and the patterns are all free!
Yes, I need to pay close attention to orientation .... I found myself getting happy with the seam ripper several times!
Go visit Pat for the interview, the free pattern and to check out all of the other lovely version from others sewing along!