As was mentioned, there will probably be many different answers. It is "what works best for you." In answer to your question about applique or putting together with other hexagons--do you enjoy doing applique? That would probably be the deciding factor. I am doing mine with the hexagons. Then, I will use "half flowers" to make the sides, top and bottom come out. One will still have to applique the hexagons to the border. As I mentioned in a previous post, I will try to post a sample of a border. It will take work but it is gorgeous.