Originally Posted by
nature lover
...................The placement of light and dark quarter square triangles is the key but a pattern would be a nice reference. Thanks for any input.
Take out the graph paper and crayons and make your own pattern!
I am sure that once you do a few rounds on the graph paper, you will get the knack of how the placement goes, and stop colouring. The maker has worked with light/dark fabrics, but not been rigid on how dark/light, so you get a more blended subtle look, yet see the darker rounds alternating.
Being a scrappy quilt, if I were making it, I would make a whole bunch of QSTs first. Then start in the centre, and gradually work my way out, ring by ring, adding two opposite sides, then the other two opposite sides and so on. It'll help you keep those darker rings more in order. Plus, if you are aiming at a general colour tone within each round, it'll be easier.
For sure, a design wall would help you get the first rounds set up before you start stitching and help with colour/fabric balance effect ...... and help keep your sanity! Yes, I am one that doesn't go totally scrappy, and keeps it more organized.
Good Luck!