EXPLORING EMOTION THROUGH FABRIC COLOUR

WORKING WITH COLOUR: WHAT WE FEEL…WHAT WE CREATE 

As quilters and textile artists, we often talk about fabric, thread, texture and design. But what about colour—the silent communicator? Whether consciously chosen or intuitively felt, colour can shape a quilt’s atmosphere, influence our state of mind as we create and deeply affect how others experience our work. Let’s have a look at how colour sets the emotional tone in quilting. 

MOOD SETTING IN ART QUILTS 

Just like in painting, an art quilt’s palette sets the tone. A piece made in cool tones—blues, greys, muted greens—can create a feeling of calm or distance. Sometimes even sadness or introspection. On the other hand, warm tones—reds, oranges, earthy browns—bring warmth and intimacy. They pull us in and stir emotion. 

MY FLOWERS. WARMTH AND INTIMACY

High-contrast colour schemes, like black and white or vibrant complementary colours, often shout instead of whisper. They demand attention and create a sense of boldness or tension. In contrast, analogous colours (those sitting next to each other on the colour wheel) feel more peaceful and unified, letting the viewer’s eye rest and roam.

SPLAT! HIGH CONTRAST COLOUR SCHEME 

THE QUILTER’S EXPERIENCE: COLOUR AS INFLUENCE 

We don’t only see colour—we feel it as we work with it. 

Choosing a palette of soft pastels or gentle neutrals can make the quilting process feel soothing, even meditative. It slows us down and helps us breathe….unless we’re working towards a looming deadline!  

BUSY HANDS. PASTELS AND GENTLE NEUTRALS ARE SOOTHING. 

Fiery or saturated colours can do the opposite—revive us, spark ideas, energize us on days when creativity feels sluggish. This is important to remember when it feels as if our creative mojo has left us temporarily! Work in colours that will stimulate your creativity. 

DESTRUCTIVE BEAUTY 2. FIERY AND SATURATED COLOURS STIMULATE CREATIVITY 

Sometimes the colours we choose reflect how we feel. Other times, they help shift how we feel. 

THE VIEWER’S RESPONSE

Quilts don’t speak, but they say so much. And often, colour is their first voice. 

A bright, joyful colour scheme lifts the spirits—it can feel like a celebration. Neutral palettes invite quiet reflection.  

LITTLE BOXES. BRIGHT AND COLOURFUL LIFT THE SPIRIT.

Deep, dark tones might draw the viewer into a more solemn or contemplative place. Colour isn’t merely decorative—it’s a nonverbal message that stirs emotion before any meaning is interpreted. 

IN TATTERS. DEEP DARK TONES

As artists, we can use this power intentionally. Or we can simply trust that the colours we are drawn to will do the work for us. 

CONCLUSION 

Colour is such a personal part of quilting—sometimes chosen with purpose, other times just because it feels right in the moment. Whether we’re aiming to create a mood, boost our own energy, or simply enjoy the process, it’s worth paying attention to how colour influences both the making and the message of our quilts. 

Happy stitching—and may your colour choices bring you just what you need, one piece at a time!