When i see a picture of a quilt i like i cut it out or print it and take it with me when i go to get fabric. I dont try to match it exactly but i can usually tell if a fabric is dark, light or medium tone. Then i choose the colors based on that. i have also asked both people who work in the store and customers for their opinions. i was once buying fabric for a baby quilt (teals, lilacs and turquoises) and the customer behind me liked it so much she bought the same ones. i do think i get better with practice. Good luck1