I just layer the bolts and stand back. Anything that jars is taken out and put back on the shelf. Using a colour wheel that gives tonal values helps a lot when you start.
Another way is to lay out your fabric overlapping it and use a telescope the wrong way round. It is fairly easy to see when something is not right.
It is a lovely way to spend an afternoon or evening, pulling stuff out of your stash until it feels right. If it is right for you, then every one else can quilt off!