I have both panels...the confederate generals and the northern generals...have been trying to decide on colors myself!
I automatically thought about the gray (probably a blued gray) but want to also add some other colors with it. Of course, I will use some of the browns (butternut sounds great) and I have to add in a little red (on both) for the blood that was shed. Such a sad, sad, war.
It took me a long time to find the Southern Generals Panel...I even called the first place I ordered it from and they said it WAS southern....but...I was a little take back when it was Grant instead of Lee who showed up at my door! LOL
Have you decided on pattern yet?
Keep us posted on your progress. I won't be able to start on mine til later as I've promised myself that I will get some of my UFOs finished!
Enjoy making your quilt!