The piping is a definite keeper. It frames the quilt beautifully. You might want to check out Susan Cleveland's site. I think she is the 'queen of piping.
http://www.piecesbewithyou.com/
If you go to DIY, Simply Quilts and search for Piping Troubleshooting Tips, you'll find a great show with Susan K. Cleveland about piping and binding.
Mary Ellen