Here's a tip for "planned" orphans ....
Years ago, I remember reading, when you make those practice blocks and such, stick with a common colour theme. Better still, use the same fabrics. That way, even though the block designs may not really coordinate, your colours will ... and then you have a coordinated effort for the combined effort, later.
Did I take that idea and run with it? ... regrettably not!
Sometimes I envy the quilters who repeat their colours, one quilt after the other.
Makes it easier to put the leftovers together, later on!