Stitchnripper

I'm glad you suggested this. I have started to use black more snd more - always audition. And I really like the outcomes better with the black on most of my quilts. I've even started using black instead of light or blender backgrounds.

Karamarie

I would make a sashing - kind of plain with maybe just a touch of burgundy in it.

joe'smom

I think the taupe (Pure Elements mushroom) is the only possibility to go directly next to the blocks. Every other color (creams, reds, blues) blended into the blocks that had that color on the outside of the block. What do you think? Should I just do a sashing, or a frame and sashing? Kind of in a muddle about it.

pamelor

I like the first blue you have or the last. The taupe is blah and blends too much. The dark blue too stark, not soft. the second blue goes well, stands out a bit but not too much, you have very few blocks with enough blue on the edges that they would disappear with blue sashing. There might be a better or more elaborate choice out there but the blue looks great. I also wouldn't get too fancy with extra borders -- the blocks are the main attraction here.

alaskasunshine

I just realized it wasn't you that is messy. It was someone else. I'm sorry.
I still see black or at least something very dark unless you don't want your lovely blocks to "pop"! Maybe a black print with very small print that "reads" solid. Are you able to send pictures to fabric shops to see if they may have something that would go with your blocks? Years ago I was at a sewing get together and I was auditioning fabrics I had brought with a quilt top. Honestly I was so frazzled and a lady I didn't know saw me trying several pieces and said wait!!! I have exactly what you need! She brought me a deep purple batik/tie dyed fabric. That was not at all a fabric that I would have even remotely considered & it was PERFECTLY PERFECT!

If you are familiar with Thimble Berry fabrics from years ago that's what I might audition! I think sashing and border would look beautiful. The fabric used for sashing & borders will make or break a quilt!

I haven't posted pictures on here in years so I can't send you pictures of what worked for me.
Please keep us posted Your work is very pretty!

joe'smom

My thinking was, since my blocks are so busy and with different backgrounds, I wouldn't want anything patterned.

I really appreciate everyone's feedback, it is so valuable to have insights into other people's thinking!