They are both beautiful, but I'm leaning more toward the dark. I think it makes the lighter block pop more.

I think the light pops more for me, but just like everything else we all have an opinion, and only yours will decide which you use. Thanks for posting.

Me too! I always go for the dark background but when I scrolled down and saw the light ... wow! It really works!

I usually say black, but these fans look better on the light fabric.

Dark and purple will be grand! I have used purple as a background in other quilts that were scrappy and have been very, very pleased with the results. I do hope to see your results when you make your final choice.

Black for impact or light for subtle...depends on the statement you want to make.

Light. froggyintexas

I, too, normally would gravitate towards the black, but the lighter just seems to speak to me in this instance.

Both work but I prefer the lighter one...

I like both, but the blue is so welcoming...think I vote blue

I like dark but in this case not the black, I think the purple would really do great tho.

Great colors. The dark is more striking, richer looking.

I prefer the light, it is softer and more relaxing.

I'm not with the dark side. I vote light!

Dark really makes the colours stand out

my favorite is the dark color. those same pieces just pop!!!!

I prefer the light. It brightens up the quilt. It's visually softer on my eyes.

Both would be nice but I like the light background better

Love the dark!!!

How about a dark purple?
Sure hope we get to see it finished! :)

My vote is light.

The black is dramatic, but quiet, The blue brings it to life and makes it all sing. I'm totally into scrappy quilts and love the variety of prints you've used. Well done!

The dark color is my choice. It really makes them stand out