Selecting Fabrics for Colorwash Quilts
| ~*~ | Cut 2" squares |
| ~*~ | Use 100% cotton fabrics. Values should range from very light to very dark, with plenty of "mediums". |
| ~*~ | Use only prints; no solids, stripes, geometrics, plaids, etc. |
| ~*~ | The prints should have at least three colors. Some two-color prints will work for the very lightest and darkest places, but do not use solids. Use the "wrong" side of your fabrics, too. |
| ~*~ | Use many different colors, even if you are blending a design from one hue to another. (blue to purple, as well as dark to light) |
| ~*~ | Use
ugly and beautiful prints. Novelty prints, like scenic views, animals,
people, nursery, seasonal patterns, etc. can be very helpful. |
| ~*~ | Big, splashy florals and paisleys are most useful, but it's also good to maintain contrast of scale: large, medium, and even some smaller prints. |
| ~*~ | Any print that reminds you of a watercolor painting will work, but don't neglect earth tones. |
| ~*~ | Prints
should not be rigid repeats of one motif: the pattern should flow off
the edges of your 2” square. Use a Ruby Beholder® or other window
template to see the finished 1 1/2” square. |
| ~*~ | You need a lot of different fabrics for a colorwash quilt. You may like to bring plenty of squares and swap with other students in the class. |
| ~*~ | Border fabrics should be selected after the design portion of the quilt has been completed. |
© 1999 Catherine Timmons
If you found this article helpful, please feel free to print a copy for your personal use. If you would like to publish it in your quilt guild newsletter or share it elsewhere, please email me for permission - cathe@gloryquilts.com.
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