Nix to the blue too. I think some nice taupe shade would let the applique stand out nicely.

My first thought was to use a black background, maybe black and grey shades then use what ever color for the applique. My second thought was shades of soft yellows.
I don't know why, but I like black backgrounds on some quilts it really makes things pop.
Decide what colors your applique is going to be and go to your stash and lay colors of the applique on different fabs and see what really hits you.

I would keep with the season and maybe do a "winter sky", snow's on it's way background, light grey, dove grey etc. From there I would choose the color of the stars, auditioning maybe soft yellows, whatever you like. The bird seems to be the focus so pick a color of flower petals that doesn't take away from him.

Oh, this is really nice! I would probably change the flowers to red - they look like poinsettias to me--then do the background in tans-neutrals. I may have just added another quilt to my wanna-do list...

I would try greens or grays. Where leaves touch the green make sure you have a contrasting green that shows up. Gray would make it a late winter sky look.

Another Michiganer I had the same thougt of gray.

I would say choose the color you do love, then adapt your applique if necessary to look nice with it. Since it's mostly white, little change should be necessary. You could do it in pinks, peaches, greens, browns, purples, reds; the rainbow is yours for the choosing. Pick your favorite color, then some shades of it as noted for the blue just substitute your color. Be brave, be bold, just go for it!!

[quote=mollymct]I agree![/quote

If you're thinking winter colors, how about greys (light to dark), grey to black or maybe purples.

I agree - I think yellows and oranges would be beautifull!