love both but my older eyes are more comfortable with #1. which ever you decide will be a wonderful, thoughtful and welcomed gift. my husband is 89 and took his nap today with a quilt covering him.

I vote for the second arrangement because I like the way it draws the eye from the lightest 'crosses' to the darker ones. Rail Fence is a great old pattern but #2 is more visually interesting. The subtle colors give the top a lovely heirloom look.

I like both, #1 would be my first choice. If you wanted to add more contrast could you stay in the same color family but use a deep brown shade to border it and a dark brown decorative stitch to quilt the cream shade? Just a thought, whatever you decide it will be a beautiful quilt and he will feel the love in it!

Both layouts are great, but I really like #1. The fabrics you chose are Perfect for a guy quilt!

I like them both, but I'm partial to #1.

Another vote for #1 and another comment on how great it is. He will love it!

Another vote for #1. And, like everyone else....love the fabrics.

Like 1! Im going to be making the same pattern!!

I LOVE them both!

My choice is #1. I like the soft colors you chose.