I need your help please - which layout?
 

I'm making a quilt for my 89yr old Father-in-law and (besides making a really bad choice on the fabric - not enough contrast with the colour etc), which layout is most pleasing? I think #1 is kind of plain and #2 is too busy. Right now they are cut in 8 1/2" blocks . Any help would be greatly appreciated (I hope the photo's upload OK)

He will love either one. They are both so very pretty. It is just in a high key, as they say. I love it. You still have light, medium, and darks. Go with it.

I preferred the second layout. It seemed like the colors were better defined. Either way is beautiful and relaxing.

I like number 1 best. Good job!

I like both, but I prefer the first one. I am partial to the rail fence though. :) I think your father-in-law will really appreciate either of them. Very nice quilts! Quilts don't always have to shout at ya...:)

Dina

Your fabric is fine, just more subdued. I know there is probably a technical term for that. I like #2 as it is a bit different then the more standard rail fence layout.

They are both really lovely! I like the calming "feel" of the blending fabrics too.

#1 is most appealing to me! I like the lightness of your quilt. I think it really has an elegant look to it. As azwendyg said, it has a very calming feel to it. Nice job!

Tough choice -- I like them both! To me, #1 is quieter, #2 more dramatic. Your fabric choices are fine -- it's a quilt to make a person smile.