Are you aware of the big “low volume” trend? There is a whole Flickr group dedicated to it now. Basically, it’s the use of fabric with white or cream bases with simple graphic prints and texture to create impact rather than relying on bright, bold fabrics to do that for you. I made this patchwork (using my 2″ square Sizzix die) with that idea in mind. I wanted a textured background for applique.  I planned to use just one text print but it felt too flat. I took the “low volume” idea to the extreme so I am calling it way low volume! My fabrics are all nearly the same shade of cream. Here is what I used:
Kona Snow
Basic Grey Vanilla Grunge
Ivory Essex Linen
Vintage Tea Labels in Linen from Penelope
Roses in Linen from Penelope Four
Hometown (out of stock most places)
Handwriting in Taupe from Penelope (This is on backorder from Sew me a Song but available in two other colors)
Moda Etchings in Parchment (bought at a brick and mortar shop in CT)

I am using this patchwork for the background of an appliqued table runner. The appliques are done using Oakshott Ruby Reds, courtesy of Michael Oakshott and Lynne. I absolutely love the Oakshott fabrics. I love fabrics with texture, like linen and essex and Basic Grey’s grunge and crosshatch. These fit into that niche for me too. With the warp and weft different colors, the materials look different depending on the angle from which you are viewing them. They are also just so saturated with color that they have amazing depth. I had a hard time cutting into them and am holding onto my every scrap!

The table runner is nearly done. I am just finishing up the quilting. Pictures soon!