When I look at some of the more complex ones, they break down into more geometric shapes and swirls, scrolls etc. My idea was that the 'bones' of the piece, ie the simpler shapes would be applique and the FMQ would be the swirly parts. I like the idea of the applique being denser in the centre and the FMQ phasing in until at the outer edges, it's ONLY FMQ. The steam a seam is 18" wide so I'll do a square that size then cut my background a WOF and square (ie around 40") so that will leave lots of space for FMQ. Can't wait to make a start but I have to take the kids swimming first! LOL