I learned a real easy way to make the circles. Measure the center ato see what size circle you need. Cut the circle out of template plastic (cereal box if necessary). Place the circle tremplate on the back side of your material and mark around using whatever marker you want. Cut out leaving a good 1/4 inch all around. Take your cut out material and run a running stitch all around close to the edge. Place the circle template back and draw up your gathering thread. Press using starch or sizing. Let dry and remove the template. You now have a perfectly round circle to applique in the center of your dresden plate. You can do this by hand or by machine...what ever you prefer