I cast my vote for dark. Seems to make the colors really pop for me.

Exactly what I thought.

I say go for dark. Makes the color really standout.

I think if you are going to go for a 'light' background - go lighter with a white or off white - some of the blocks/arcs are getting 'lost' against the blue.

The blocks/arcs are dramatic against the black - but I think it's harsh contrast - it would work, if that's the look you want.

have you considered a medium to dark brown instead?

I still find it amazing how changing the colors of a pattern can make it look so different.

Just wonderful, great job and thank you for sharing, I like the black makes it pop and give it an oriental flavor.
Have a Blessed day
Ellen

The dark makes the colors pop, I think. It's going to be so pretty!

Love the texture of the light fabric, think I like it the best!!

I like both but it really pops on the dark background

With your brighter colors I'd have said dark and really liked the black until I, too, scrolled down and saw the lighter blue. It really does something for me. It's soft, but, striking. Let us know:)

Can you do a half and half quilt? Like a sunshine side and a shadow side?????

Light, please.

shows up more on the dark then you could stipple it in varagated thread.

I prefer the light color... it has more of a calm/soothing feel to it.

oh gosh both are great but would probably go dark!!!

hmmmmmm dark reminds me of BOLD, light reminds me of cozy and homey. my personal taste would be for the light but the dark would make a very eye popping quilt especially in dark purple!

I love black! Both are beautiful though :)

Definitely light!

I vote for light

I want to thank everyone who took some time togive me a clue as to the prefered BG on these arcs.

So far the count is:

Make two quilts- 9
Dark - 17
light- 30

The lights have it! So now I will choose a selection of lights that will give a slight variance in the BG and also try mint greens that was suggested. I will also try the Sunshine & Shadow effect tosee what it will do also.

Thanks again for all your help. Now you have to wait and see!
peace

I agree, dark pops color. The light is also nice, but the wheels almost disappear with the lighter one. I like both though.

I seem to gravitate towards the black. Black seems to make things pop for me!

They really look better on the light.

Definitely the LIGHT fabric

Both look great, depends on the look you want to achieve. The dark really makes the blocks pop but the light gives it a more subtle look. Just go the the look you want, I think both will be effective.

I prefer the lighter background. It seems to bring out the design.

Have you tried white-white for a background? These modern quilts with white are catching my eye these days and am
thinking these arcs might be awesome with a white background.

Light blue

dark gives it contrast and drama but the light is more calming. I am on the fence until there are more pieces done.

I'm glad you went with the light - that would be my vote. Can't wait to see it finished!

I chose the light one.

Black has more contrast. I love high contrast though.

Light is easier on my eyes.

Yup........Black it is!

I'd go with the light on this one.

Light would be my choice.

I also vote for the dark one. It is as if you see the colors better!

Totally agree with lauriejo.

I would go with the blue background .

I like dark with brights, but for these prints, I'd prefer a light, but one with more contrast than your blue. If white or cream doesn't do it for you, a very pale pastel would be my choice. Personally, these blocks say baby pink to me.

dark for sure