Planning vs. Winging It: Which Is the Best Way to Make a Quilt?

One of the most common questions I’ve received during the Charlotte Quiltalong is whether you should arrange your fabric placement by color within each block — or mix everything up.

The answer is — it depends! There’s no one-size-fits-all approach and it may depend a little bit on the fabrics you are using in your quilt but it is probably more your own personal preference.

In this post, I’m talking about both, plus sharing some examples of how each one has worked for me. Whether you’re a spreadsheet-loving planner or a scrap-happy improviser, there’s something here for you.

The Case for Planning Your Quilt

Planning your quilt — from pattern to fabric selection to layout — can be deeply satisfying. It gives you a roadmap to follow and helps reduce uncertainty along the way. Quilting is EXPENSIVE and it is nice to be pretty confident that things are going to work out.

Pros of planning:

• You know what you're getting

• You aren't spending extra time changing your mind
  

• You’re less likely to end up with a quilt you don’t love 

Examples:

• This rainbow Jenny Quilt is a great example of how a little planning goes along way. I mocked up this quilt exactly with the colors I wanted to use and didn't alter my plans at all.

• I very planned this version of the Jonah Quilt because I wanted to use some fabrics that were similar in color and I wanted to make sure they were placed in a way that would let them all stand out.

The Joy of Winging It

I don't think you would be shocked to know that I usually prefer to take a more chaotic approach to quilting. There’s something magical about diving in without a plan and letting your creativity take the lead. Winging it often leads to unexpected results.

Pros of improvising:

• It’s more intuitive and spontaneous — great if you’re feeling creatively blocked

• It encourages experimentation

• You are always surprised with your finished quilt

Examples:

• My recent Quilt Roulette project was supposed to follow a theme — but I veered off and followed a fabric combo I loved instead.

• This scrappy rainbow quilt is a total wing-it success that ended up being one of my favorites.

Which Is Better?

Honestly, the best method is the one that works for you. Some of my favorite quilts started with a plan and ended up somewhere totally different — and others turned out perfectly by following every step from sketch to stitch.

Here are a few questions to help you decide:

• Are you working with a deadline or specific recipient in mind?

• Do you get overwhelmed by too many decisions mid-project?

• Do you enjoy puzzles and structure — or do you prefer freedom and spontaneity?

Spoiler alert: there’s no wrong answer.

My Advice for the Charlotte Quiltalong?

Do what feels right! The images below might help you figure out which you prefer.

Both use the same Twinkle fabrics by Laundry Basket Quilts, but in Quilt #1, the color placement is totally intentional: