Some quilts are more about pattern (I think of these as traditional, with smaller pieces), and in these, I think the fabrics serve the pattern, holding a place and performing their parts like members of a choir. I gravitate towards bigger-piece quilts, which allow the individual fabrics to define the character of the quilt. For me thus far, the primary fascination in quilting has been with the effects of fabric and color combinations. But it depends on the individual quilt, as to what feature draws the attention first.