i think it depends on your plates---and what look you are going for- i've done a number of them and they are all different- i've had centers with appliqued snowmen on them, fussy cut sunflowers, solid colors with decorative stitching, or embroidery- and prints---it is up to you- what ever you like- it might help you decide if you know how it will be quilted- you might want to use a solid and quilt the center with a special pattern-