My first tip is actually one that someone once shared with me back when I was a young and naive quilter. It has made all the difference!
I use a little scrap of fabric (about 1-1/2″ x 3″ folded to make a square) as a starter for all my piecing. It works great, especially for small pieces or if you’re starting your seam on a point, to keep the fabric from getting pulled down into your presser plate when you start your seam. Read more