One very important aspect of designing and making a quilt is to determine which quilt fabric will be used. Since most quilts incorporate many colors and patterns of fabric into the design, it is important to consider which fabrics will complement each other the best.
Perhaps the first consideration to make when selecting quilt fabric is the colors to use. Colors that complement each other will produce a much more harmonious balance than those that clash. Contrasting colors can produce a very striking quilt, too, but, again, the key is to avoid colors that clash.
The weight of quilt fabric is as important to the finished product as is the colors chosen. Fabrics of similar weight work the best. They look best together, wear more uniformly, and often require similar laundering processes.
When one very heavy quilt fabric, say velvet, is used, it is important that all other fabrics used will hold up to the weight of the heavy fabric. For example, a patchwork quilt made from velvet and organza isn’t a good idea at all. The heaviness of the velvet will overpower the delicacy of the organza, causing it to drape poorly and tear long before the velvet shows any sign of wear.
Compatible laundering requirements are also an important consideration when choosing the best quilt fabric to use. Quilts designed more for show than function will probably endure only light use and laundering may not be such an important issue. Quilts designed for everyday use, however, will likely face the need for regular laundering so it’s wise to choose fabrics that can be washed the same way. Don’t mix fabrics that must be dry cleaned with those that are safe for machine washing unless dry cleaning is the laundering method intended.
Texture is an important consideration when choosing quilt fabric, too. A combination of textures can make a very interesting quilt but it’s important that weight and laundering is complementary throughout.
