There is a book out called
"Panel Play" by Barbara Becker that is very helpful on how to design around panels. I bought 3 panels for my nieces/nephew to make them christmas throw quilts (to keep them from using the fancy embroidered applique one I made my sister their mom) and did 3 of the designs out of the book. They turned out stunning. The author also teaches how to size the blocks you need, how to straighten a panel, and many other things related to working with panels. I strongly recommend purchasing this book if you do a lot of panels. Definitely got my creative juices flowing!