As quilters, color is one of our biggest tools of the trade. And yet, sometimes we just really don’t know if the colors we’ve chosen “go together” or if the color combination is very interesting. Everybody knows that feeling of looking at a project and thinking that it lacks something, but we can’t quite say what.
« Let’s normalize doing color studies! »
In other arts and crafts, doing multiple studies - - either composition studies or color studies or both - - has been completely normalized, but somehow in patchwork, we’re expected to hit the ground running and select the perfect fabrics right from the beginning.
Let’s normalize doing color (and composition) studies too! These are little mini quilt experiments that help us develop more color and composition confidence.
Here are some suggestions to help organize your color studies:
Experiment
Approach these like an artist’s study - - the whole point of the exercise is to try out a color combination or a concept, NOT to make a finished project;
2. Zero attachment to outcome
Do NOT worry about finishing these off perfectly, or at all, unless you are specifically trying out a new finishing technique, and keep in mind that all information is welcome information, including the fact that you may hate the result (just try to figure out WHY you hate it);
3. Limit size
Keep the size relatively small, for example, 30 cm x 30 cm (approx. 12 in x 12);
4. Combine techniques
These studies can also be a way to practice new piecing, quilting, or embellishment techniques;
5. Take notes
Write down some remarks regarding what you like or don’t like about the study, or any other observations that come to mind;
6. Organize your experiments + notes
You can keep these studies in a special folder or box to refer back to year after year when you’re looking for color combinations or different techniques;
7. Use stash fabrics
Final bonus: use those awkward-sized leftover pieces of fabric.
To encourage you to start experimenting and documenting your results, we’ve created a printable worksheet to help you organize your thoughts and even your scrap fabrics used in your studies.
Just click the button below to download it!
We’d love to hear what your biggest obstacles are when it comes to combining colors and playing with new techniques: leave us a comment below!
