If it is a quilt I am going to follow the pattern to a T, then I will make every attempt to come close to the fabrics , if not the same as possible. However, right now, I am making kids quilts that match their favorite interest. Right now, my fav fabrics is brights, so I choose a theme I choose two main colors, and try to buy fabrics that match the theme. I have called myself a "DAUG" (design as u go). Sometimes the blocks are not matching up, sometimes I spend hours changing design or colors, but in the end the kids don't mind if it's not exact. All they are looking for is that it's in their fav color, their fav theme and that makes me happy.