Curved piecing and piping

Since starting my exploration of bags, cases, etc in my sewing designs, I have noticed a pattern. I am completely addicted to curved (and completely unnecessary) seams and piping. It must be the added joy at the end of the project because these two things are NOT ideal additions to the frustrations of being new to design.
Piping is fairly straight forward. I buy the prepared packages and simply baste it to the correct location, then stitch it into the
seam using a zipper foot.
Curved edges are another story. Even with plenty of experience, I can't help but sigh at the direction "ease fullness" in a sewing pattern. Gathers and extreme curves.... ugh!
But I'm crazy and keep adding them in my patterns. How do you do it? I learned to figure it out by reading a quilting book. Rhapsody Quilts by Ricky Tims - I would love to make one of these quilts. However I don't have the time or finances for one any time soon. The book is worth it though. All the tips on the tricky piecing that can result in the rhapsody designs can easily be applied to your other projects. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/1571204563
The only other thing I'll say about the project being shown is that the appliqué is going to be EPIC. Finished pictures up in a couple weeks! Happy sewing!