I used the pattern and instructions from Eleanor Burns Quilt in a Day book, and I machine appliqued the plate down, then did a small zigzag, can't remember what flavor of thread I used, probably something blue as the blades were all bright medium fabrics. This was a family reunion quilt 3 years ago, the family members send fabric of my color choice, then I put together a quilt. One of my "fussy" brothers, who also won the quilt, told me it was the best quilt I had ever made. The only change I made was increasing the size of the background block by about an inch all around, I thought the block looked better that way. I used a "base" fabric for 4 points of the plate, and the same fabric in the middle, a very pretty batik - it was one of my better quilts - which I had won it instead of Don. Oh well, one of these days I'll win one I hope, or at least one of my kids. I'm sure your quilt will be beautiful.