It's the yellow squares. They are in the center of each nine-patch. It really disrupts the flow of a random single Irish Chain pattern. The middle and corner pieces of the nine-patch form the Chain. It is the other pieces that should match the large background squares.

Edit: Oh, I see why it was confusing. I should have said "center squares" instead of middle squares.

I vote for 3. I like the contrast the black brings to it.

Here's a link to a random Single Irish Chain quilt:
http://fabadashery.blogspot.com/2013...arm-quilt.html

I think yours would look stunning with a silvery neutral gray as the background. A swirly batik cream/tan would be another nice choice. You really need a neutral to set off the brightly colored chains. (In my opinion.)

If you want to keep the background fabric, I think either 1 or 2 will work. I agree with Prism that using the same center square in your 9 patch is distracting. I also would keep all your pieces of the 9 patch that are part of the chain a very dark or different color. The green you are using is too close in value to the background.

I like the 'pop' of #3.

Next I like #1. Which at least has interest.

#2 is way to bland.

I like that swirly fabric so much! I think the 1st one and then the 3rd.

I like the third one best.

I vote No. 1

If you are looking for a more subtle coloration, #1 is the choice....for a brighter look, I prefer #3

Now I see what some of you mentioned about the yellow squares. That was quite unintentional. Thanks for the heads-up.....I didn't even notice that.