When I first started making quilts I would select fabrics for a quilt top from just one range or designer, which took the challenge (and difficulty) out of selecting fabrics, but generally guaranteed a quilt top that looked nice. I have since then tried to step out of this comfort zone, playing with fabrics, mixing ranges, designers, colors and textures. I have not always been successful at it, but I have become more confident and it does get easier.
The fabrics that I selected last week were based on color but the aim was also to make a quilt top with fabrics from various designers, prints, textures and styles.
(It was hard to get a good photo today as it is overcast and windy in Melbourne!)
I therefore chose fabrics from Amy Butler, Kaffe Fassett, Valori Wells, Etsuko Furuya, Heather Ross, Mrs March 30's, Aunty Cookie, and added stripes, dots, toile, as well as texture with double gauze fabrics.
I have learned that although choosing fabrics is hard, you must not be afraid of throwing together colors and prints that you normally would not. This was the first time I have used a toile print in any of my quilts and actually really love the dainty drawings that add so much interest to the quilt.
Be brave and bold. Step outside your fabric comfort zone, you have nothing to lose.
