I agree with the others about straightening the panels and that it is not cheating. I make comissioned quilts and have had clients want a "cheater" panel with a border and quilted around certain areas of it. One even brought me a double wedding ring one to do because she liked the "fabrics" in the rings and didn't want to fuss with choosing many fabrics for a "real" one.
The one thing I've learned over the years and especially on this board is to do what you are comfortable with and what makes you happy with your quilts. Enjoy!