Friday1961

I'm no help. I rarely have trouble finding fabric I like. Now, deciding what to do with the fabric I fall in love with -- that's a different story!

quiltingshorttimer

I'm blessed with lots of good advice from my LQS, but I also suggest you check out Jinny Beyer's book on color theory---it really made a difference for me. Also, check the paint dept of your Lowe's or Home Depot--they have brochures showing color combos in use, plus the paint chips can travel to the fabric store with you to help select the color--without being overwhelmed by the pattern on the fabric-the pattern becomes the second thing you see.

Often when my selections don't excite me its cause I don't have the contrast I need--one of those red filters helps you see the contrasts better. But contrast can also be a result of size of pattern too.

quiltingshorttimer

Oh! Something else--I often don't find the quilt examples in magazines my best guide as they are often trying to promote a specific collection and may not always get the contrast I'm looking for---they are often too matchy-matchy.

And sometimes a color shade darker or lighter than the colors in the patterned fabric works best in highlighting that print.

Mousie

I don't know why i didn't think of this before.
Look up Weeks Ringle. She has published how to come up with
instructions for how to pick your project fabrics.
I have that issue of American Patchwork Quilting? that's very
close to the correct name of the magazine.
She just did this whole spread in that magazine and it was
step by step on scale, colors, values, the whole shebang.
It was very helpful and I am sure I am going to refer to it
over and over.
I remember things like: one white print in a bunch of colors
will draw the eye straight to that white and can actually ruin
the overall effect.
I wish I could remember more right now, but maybe you
can just find her online and get information. She's the gal
to ask no matter if you like vintage, traditional or modern.

Arleners

When I am stuck for inspiration, I choose a multi colored print that attracts me. Then I choose fabric to coordinate with this print. Sometimes I don't even use the original fabric in the quilt, but I know that if it matches that fabric, it will go together in something I like.