Sometimes placing the pattern pieces and cutting the fabric takes as long as sewing the project. When I’m trying to get an image situated just right, I use a cutting board.
I buy 
flexible cutting boards from the Dollar Tree and then I trace the pattern onto it with a Sharpie and then cut it out (with paper scissors.) It allows me to see where the image will end up so I can fussy cut it.
This was the front of my Comfy Cowl (affiliate link: if you buy the pattern through this link I get a little support for my sewing habit.) I shared yesterday.
I also use it for pattern pieces that I will use a lot to add durability.