LHQ - Color Theory

LEFT-HANDED QUILTING - Color Theory

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Note - these instructions are written in LEFTISH.
If you are right-handed - just reverse the directions.
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Using color and fabrics in quilts is sometimes seen as problematic for new quilters.

They are afraid that they are going to make a mistake.

They are afraid that their color choices or fabrics won't "go together" - and that their quilt is going to be "ugly".

But I don't understand -

These same quilters usually have no problem getting dressed in the morning.
(Well, maybe some do!  ;))

They are able to coordinate their blouse/shirt/top - skirt/pants/jeans - shoes - jacket/sweater and accessories.  And when they get done - they look terrific!

These same quilters also have nicely decorated homes - comfortable and inviting.

They have no trouble combining furniture - pillows - curtains - etc.- and using COLOR!

So I say -

RELAX!!

Quilting uses the same principles.

Background - main/focus fabric - accents - colors that you like and that you think work well together - a variety of scale - a variety of texture - and a variety of light/medium/dark.

When it comes to using color and fabrics in quilts - trust your instincts!!

You already know what you need to know to get yourself started!  And wonderful color theory books and classes are always available if you want to learn more.

One trick you can use is to choose a "focus" fabric and then choose other fabrics that use the same colors.  (Just don't try to be all matchy-matchy.  Try going a bit lighter or darker on some.)

Or buy pre-cut packs of 5" squares, 10" squares, strips, or fat quarters - they are already color-coordinated for you.

If you need/want another great source of inspiration - and FREE!! - check out the paint department at your local home improvement store - Home Depot - Lowe's - or Walmart.

They usually have paint chip brochures with coordinating room color schemes available.

Just find one you like - and match the fabric to the colors on the card.  Simple!!

 Variety of brochures

 The "Historic" brochure -







See what I mean??  Cool, huh?

And - if you totally screw up and it turns out to be quite horrid - just use it for a dog bed -

I'm sure Fido won't know the difference and will love it just the same.  Or not.  ;))



Talk to you later - gotta go - gotta sew -