I think the fabric companies change the color waves frequently. If you have fabric from several years ago, it is hard to find new fabric that goes nicely with it, especially newer prints. Solids come in more tones so you can use them but it would be nice to have prints and look solids to go with older prints. I guess that is why scrap quilts are so popular. Smaller pieces of any fabric are easier to use. Another reason to purchase a quilt kit if you love the main fabric and the pattern. Then you at least have fabrics that go together to make the quilt when you get around to it.