Blenders
 

Can someone explain to what "blenders" are, and how I would recognize them? My LQS is having a sale on blenders today and I don't want to look like a total newbie when I go in. Thanks in advance!

Blenders are fairly one-color fabrics which have a monochromatic sort of pattern - floral or geometric. They make a nice contrast between colorful patterns, but have enough 'texture' or depth so that they don't have the flat look that solids do. Like a blue-on-blue floral swirl matches to a busy print with similar blue in it.
Essential! Stock up for your stash! :)

Also, they often have several different shades of a main color, so that one or the other will 'blend' with another fabric's color.

Moda Marbles would be a great example of what blenders are LOVE THEM !! Especially the dots !!!

RJR's Handspray is another good example. Others are 'Shadowplay' from Maywood Studios and Hoffmans' 1895 collection. Blenders are generally supposed to 'read' as a solid but not be a solid. They give the eye a place to rest when you view a quilt. I agree with others posts - - they are a staple in your stash. Have fun at the sale!

Jane

SueSew's explanation is perfect. So are the other fabric lines mentioned.
Here are pictures of a few that show "movement" or texture within the one-color print.

Jan in VA

Another term used for blenders is " printed solids". A print that from a distance reads as solid.