I hand applique all the pieces.
I also leave all the background fabric in place helps to make the dresden plate stand out a bit more after layering and quilting.
I hand applique the plates and the centers on. But I machine piece the plates, and I machine piece the squares and sashing. I also press from the back so the plates don't go flat.
Here's another decision point -- do you cut out the background fabric behind the plates and center circle, or do you leave them all intact?
RST