I think the applique strip would ADD dimension to the quilt. Without it, the quilt would be "nice", with it, it will be "wow".

I might make the strip a little wider though. Perhaps the width of a block to balance it all out.

I like the idea of flowers and the green rick rack. Another idea is to applique a deconstructed block by appliquéing geometric shapes of the block pieces from the fabrics in the quilt onto the cream fabric instead of florals.

I think a dark color strip with no black sashing, with lighter color applique would be better. I like you idea.

I like the idea of a strip of appliqué but think cream is not the color for the background. A steel gray or pale blue would lessen the starkness and fit in more with your piecing.

What a great idea! I love it! Please show us when your done.

I think it will look wonderful!

Appliqueing that strip is ideal. It'll give such a brightness (non-boring) look to the quilt. Just as Jenny has said sew many times herself and like Paula Deen, heres the basic recipe. Go ahead and add to it. Anxious to see the finished quilt. As it is right now with the strip off center will be perfect.