Using a color wheel helped me. I am a "fabricholic" and there are so many that "follow" me home. Then I pick the colors in the pattern that made me love it, pick others from my stash and start playing around with them. This works for me and I'd bet that after awhile you'll find your way. Solids for me are for sashing, but not the main focus. Hope this helps a little. I'm just returning to quilting after a 35 year hiatus and it seems easier this time; maybe it is because I'm older and wiser? LOL big time.