I have picked patterns first and then fabric, but I made a purchase from CT a couple of months ago ( 6 different 1 yard cuts of the 'soaked' line they had) that I really don't know what to do with. I bought it to make a quilt for my niece for her graduation...next year 2014! Thinking ahead. Anyway, I figure I have a little time still to find a pattern that will go good with the fabrics, but it's something I really want to work on now. Never mind that I have 2 quilts sandwiched and ready for quilting and some bright fabrics for a kids quilt with the warm wishes pattern and then my secret santa sent me some fabric at xmas that I finally decided on 2 other colors to go with, but can't think of a pattern I want to use yet....Pattern 1st, definitely. Too much indecision with fabrics first, plus the worry of do I have enough fabric to make the pattern I might chose later???? I hope this help. LOL