I tend to do both, but generally I will find a fabric that just finds itself in my basket and asks to be taken home. Other times - like the Boston Commons quilt I want to make in all batik fabrics, I look for fabric to use in the pattern. My son said he wanted an Egyptian quilt (huh), found one in Keepsake Quilting and actually ordered fabric for it. I am ashamed to say that I haven't even started the quilt yet, as I'm not sure I want to follow the pattern, so I'm stalling. Need to get going on it though, as Jen and James' second anniversary is coming up in Dec. - it would make a nice anniversary present. I'm so glad I was able to clear that question up for you. lol.