I vote for #1!

Another vote for the first one. The second one stops abruptly at the edges and feels limited by them. The first one gives the feeling that it just keeps expanding outward, growing...something that could/should be said about good marriages. Well done. It's a great design.

Number 1 would be my preference.

I too prefer the first one.

I like number 1

I like #2 the best.

Number one is more interesting - like that one better

I like both equally. Each has it's own merits.

I have to ask....why this pattern for a picnic quilt? By their very nature, picnic quilts need to be washed a lot and are subject to damage from roots, rocks, dogs, etc. This quilt is so pretty that I would want it to be an inside one that graced the home, but that's just me. If I were making a picnic quilt, I would probably buy a layer cake and just arrange the squares for a simplistic, easily cared for quilt.

Similar to "Storm at Sea". Love both layouts.

First one is my favorite!