It WAS fun, and you're right - it was easier than I thought it would be. I showed off the picture around work (without telling anybody how it's made or that I swiped the technique from a book) and they all think I'm a mad genius now. MUAHAHHAHAHAAA!! There are definitely more bargellos in my quilting future!!
I just wish there was a lot less pressing of seams involved. I just can't make myself enjoy anything to do with an iron! LOL