it depends. sometimes pattern sometimes fabric. I like to try and use a fabric that I already have and then go from there with the pattern. But it also depends on the person. my SIL's baby blanket was all done after I got the fabric (almost totally from stash), however my MIL's I am having to go out and find. but that is mostly because I don't use fabrics that I think that she would like. I had to find her pattern first then get the fabrics. SIL's was fabric first and then pattern. it is totally dependent on who it is for and for what and what size.