I have done this and the way to keep it from looking like a big log cabin is to be really consistent in changing the size and shape of your patches. Sometimes is is hard to work your way out of a spot but you can always cover raw edges with your hand or embroidery stitches, pieces of lace, braid, beads, whatever embelishments you want to use. The piece I made was only about 24" x 24" but you could make it any piece you wish,