I agree with using it as a whole piece and appliqueing solid forms on it. Something that you enjoy - animals or trees and houses or just some shapes. Depending on how many and how far spaced, you could simply echo quilt around them and maybe add a few straight lines following the plaid. If it is wool, you could simply use a flannel backing without batting and it would make a toasty throw for the couch. If you are still learning, this might be a simple and yet good way for you to practice and have a nice finished product. I am not a pre-washer, but I would launder all pieces first to work out the shrinking. (Being Scottish and this fabric coming from Scotland, I know this is a fine piece. It's beautiful and I'm sure it feels so very fine.)