my book is in the mail, but I picked up another on different applique methods and have been going over that one. I've never done anything but machine satin stitch, and I may try something different for this.
I went to my favorite second hand quilt shop (she buys leftover fabric by the lb and sells it $4 a yard) but didn't find anything for backing, but did find lots of fun fabric.
I pretty sure I want to go with a deep gold background. I love the look of the gold stitching on the black background. Don't want to use black for the background so though maybe gold background with black stitching. But who knows, I may find the perfect fabric in an unexpected color. Gives me a reason to wander around the quilt shop waiting for something to speak to me (OK, so they ALL say "Take me home!").