There is something about the second one that Doesn't appeal to me - not sure why. But, to add to your confusion, have you thought about a third option? Perhaps a darker print with more of the dark purpley color? If not possible, then I would go with the first option.

They are both very pretty. I like that the first variation is light, but the orange is more dynamic. I would choose the 2nd option, but I would consider mixing up the orange with lights, mediums, and darks for sparkle.

The first one is much more pleasing to the eye, The orange stands out and pulls your eye away from the rest of the pattern.

Re: Bree123 @ post #25.

When I look at my color wheel, red- violet, blue- green and yellow- orange would make a triad. I am trying to find just the right yellow- orange for the best complement. It isn't working so well yet so I will keep trying. I keep leaning towards the orange and have to get into the yellows more. I may have to move into a split compliment if I can't make the triad work with what I have available.
Let me know if I'm wrong about the triad.
Thanks all.

First one.

The first one seems "orderly" to me - like a stone/paver/cement path through a garden.

When the orangey pieces are added - it makes me think of my Mom's perennial garden that "went wild" in the last ten years since she died.

Sorry double post.

I like the first one the best, with the white background and small dot. It brings definition to your quilt and quiets the chaos for me. The contrast in value and scale enhances your other fabric choices.

Don't know if you've already assembled the samples, but check the upper right corner block. In A there is one color sequence and in B, there is another. Minor error, but with all this work choosing fabrics and colors, you don't want to discover it later. You should also check your second triad presented later.

I find the contrast between the light fabric and the others too stark in A, but the orange doesn't do it for me either.

I like the color in the 2nd attempt at selecting the fabric in the triad. I know there's not good contrast, but the 4-squares stand out much better and should look good in the full top.

Bearisgray, Zozee and Bree123 have all given great guidance in navigating new color paths if you're wanting to branch out. Color is a big part of how we feel about something because of its emotional impact. So in the end it is what appeals to you-unless it is for someone else. I'm making a lap quilt for my niece (wedding gift) so their dog can be up on their bed and not get hair on the bed quilt my sister (her mom) is making. It's navy, gray and white-the white is fairy frost the other 2 are solids. I'm so bored I have to force myself to work on it. My niece, on the other hand, is thrilled with it:rolleyes: