for years now I have picked out one fabric I use as my focus fabric, then I choose blenders, solids and or fabrics that read as solids, that complement the focus fabric. My rule is less is better, that works for me. I do not think every one should do just as I do because each quilt should be an expression of the one who made it. and we are thankfully all different, so our quilts should all be different, think how boring it would be to go to a big quilt show and see hundreds of the same quilt, in the same colors and fabrics! we are so lucky we can celebrate being different and liking different colors, prints, styles, patterns, now is a time for big splashy prints and mushy patterns, not my cup of tea, but for others it is just right.