I just finished the star. Note that the pattern calls for 6 bobbins of white and 4 of gold,  not pairs. Also do a few sewings when the pattern crosses, it will be make the lace more stable (thank you Claire Settle). I bought my perle 12 cotton from a Joann's store and I did 2 twists around the pin. The pricking was copied on a light blue cardstock and didn't require prepricking or a film cover, just jump right in and have fun.