Want to make 2-color quilts but are unsure how to choose the right colors? Whether you prefer modern patterns or classic designs, explore our selection of two color quilt patterns, complete with a free pattern and color tips to help you get started!
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How to Choose Colors for the Modern Two Color Quilt
Two-color quilts are classic, bold, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re drawn to timeless combinations like blue and white or red and white, or you’re ready to explore fresh, modern pairings, choosing the right two colors is key to creating a harmonious design.
So, how do you pick the perfect color combo? It all depends on the look you’re going for. If you already have one color in mind, use the color wheel as a guide to find a complementary or contrasting color that brings balance and interest.
Below, we’ve included examples using our Underlined quilt pattern to show how different color choices can completely change the vibe of your quilt.
Achromatic color palette or classic black and white combination
Black and white are achromatic because they contain no color, but they create maximum contrast. This combination is classic, timeless, and works in modern, minimalist, or geometric designs.
Classic color and white combinations
Pairing a color with white creates a fresh, crisp contrast while keeping the design light and airy, emphasizing the chosen color.
Blue & White – Timeless and refreshing, often seen in nautical and winter designs.
Red & White – Bold and energetic, commonly used in vintage and patriotic themes.
Green & White – Fresh and natural, perfect for botanical and organic looks.
Complementary color palette
Two colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel, creating strong contrast and a bold, eye-catching effect.
Purple & Yellow – A vibrant, high-energy combination.
Monochromatic color palette
A single color in different shades, tints, and tones, adding depth while maintaining a cohesive look.
Navy & Sky Blue – A sophisticated, layered effect.
Analogous color palette
Colors that are next to one another on the color wheel. Creates a rich, blended look—red and orange work beautifully together.
Red & Orange – Warm and vibrant, perfect for a bold statement.
Learn more about the color theory for quilters and get inspired by modern quilting color schemes.
Solids vs. Prints – What’s Best for Two-Color Quilts?
Your fabric choice is just as important as color selection. Solids create a clean, graphic effect, letting the quilt design shine. They’re perfect for modern, minimalist quilts or high-contrast color combinations. Prints, on the other hand, add movement, texture, and an extra layer of interest. You can mix a bold print with a solid for balance or use two subtle prints for a softer, blended look.
Solids – Create a clean, bold look that emphasizes the quilt design and high-contrast color combinations.
Prints – Add texture and depth, making the design feel softer or more dynamic depending on the scale of the print.
Mixing Solids & Prints – Balances the design by letting one fabric stand out while the other adds visual interest.
How to Choose the Right Binding for a Two-Color Quilt
Binding isn’t just a finishing touch—it can add a whole new dimension to your quilt. The color you choose for your binding can subtly blend in or boldly frame the design, depending on the look you’re going for.
Blend In – Use one of the colors from your quilt top to keep the binding subtle and cohesive. This approach keeps the focus on the overall design without drawing attention to the edges.
Add a Tint – Choose a lighter or darker tint of one of your quilt colors for a soft accent. This adds depth and interest while staying within the same color family.
Make It Pop – Go bold with a contrasting or complementary color to frame your quilt and emphasize the design. This works especially well with high-contrast or geometric patterns.
See all three binding options on our Underlined quilt side by side to compare how each finish changes the final look.
Whether you prefer bold solids, playful prints, or a mix of both, two-color quilts always make a statement. Now, let’s explore some quilt patterns that bring these color combinations to life!
Get Inspired by Modern Two Color Quilt Patterns!
Underlined by Designed to Quilt (Free Pattern)
Underlined is made with jelly roll strips, making it quick and easy to put together. If you’re looking for a simple two-color quilt pattern you can finish in just one afternoon, this is a perfect choice! The geometric shapes really pop, and the pattern looks fantastic in any color combination—as you can see above.
Modern Herringbone Quilt Pattern by Designed to Quilt
Traditional quilt pattern turned modern! This is one of those two color quilt patterns that make a big impact with bold geometric shapes. The modern color combo is just the finishing touch!
Free Simple Plus Quilt Pattern by Quilty Love (Free Pattern)
The classic plus quilt always looks great. Two colors really highlight the shapes, especially when you choose contrasting colors. If you’re after a more colorful plus quilt, we’ve got options for that too!
Opti Quilt Pattern by Imera Quilt Co.
This is one of my favorite two color quilt patterns! Modern, eye-catching, and versatile—this vivid blue and white combo results in a fresh summer statement piece.
Celtic Snowflake Quilt Pattern by Madison Rose Quilting
This two-color quilt pattern blends the classic Irish Chain with geometric snowflakes for a modern winter look. Choose blue and white for a crisp, wintry feel—or go with red for a festive, holiday-inspired twist.
Middle Way Quilt Pattern by Eudaimonia Studio
This striking black-and-white quilt is a true eye-catcher! The deep black background makes the white strips stand out, creating bold contrast. As long as you keep the contrasting colors, the result will be bold in any two-color combo.
Ponderosa Quilt Pattern by Alderwood Studio
The Ponderosa Quilt by Amber of Alderwood Studio features a bold and symbolic geometric design. While the pattern works with various color combos, it gains special power as a simple two-color quilt that makes a strong statement!
Easy Striped Quilt by Quilty Love (Free Pattern)
This is one of those simple two color quilt patterns that proves less is more. With clean lines and a bold finish, the striped design stands out in both high-contrast and soft, tonal color combos. A great example of how a minimal layout can create a bold visual impact.
The Thea Quilt Pattern by See Kate Sew
This is one of those two color quilt patterns that has a bold geometric design that will pop out in any color combo. This brown and white is a great choice if you’re looking for a quilt pattern for men.
Southbound Pattern by Alderwood Studio (Free Pattern)
This simple geometric design features a striking central composition that draws the eye. Clean lines and bold contrast give it a modern feel. It’s one of those simple two color quilt patterns—and it’s free for newsletter subscribers!
Golden Lattice Quilt Pattern by Side Lake Stitch
Traditional quilt, modern twist! The simple, repetitive block design creates a clean, contemporary look, letting the classic star blocks truly shine.
Interwoven Quilt Pattern by Lo and Behold
Here’s a great example of a two-color quilt using two analogous colors. The result is a soft, blended look, while the simple geometric design adds an extra layer of interest.
The Stepwell Quilt Pattern by Nomadic Quilter
Make your two-color quilt fast and easy! This pattern uses just two alternating blocks and strip piecing for a quick finish. Whether you choose dark or light color combos, the geometric design will really pop. For a special touch, try out these straight-line quilting designs.
Tribal Tiles by Quilts by Catherine
Here’s another great example of two color quilt patterns that uses strip piecing to come together quickly. We can all agree that this modern Aztec design is a real eye-catcher!
Lochlyn Quilt Pattern by Madison Rose Quilting
I love the simplicity of two-color quilts, and this classic plaid pattern takes it to the next level! The final result is so crisp and clean, it almost looks printed.
Gables Quilt Pattern by Penelope Handmade
This fun and playful pattern combines half-square triangle blocks, tiny nine-patch blocks, and rail blocks. It’s a modern take on the classic Young Man’s Fancy quilt block, offering endless possibilities for unique creations—whether in two-color quilts or multicolor designs!
Windmill Weave Quilt Pattern by Sewspicious
The Windmill Weave Quilt is a block-based pattern offering a modern twist on the classic windmill block. I love how the colors pop in this two-color quilt!
Single Irish Chain Quilt Pattern by Joz Makes Quilts
Traditional designs never go out of style! This is one of those two color quilt patterns that truly makes the most of its geometric pattern. Check out the photos for inspiring color combination ideas!
Harken Quilt Pattern by BPoopies Handmade
This is actually a three-color quilt pattern, but as long as the third color is a small yet impactful accent, I’m including it in the two color quilt patterns selection. I love this modern twist on the traditional Irish Chain—those colorful squares give it a fresh floral look, a great modern flower quilt pattern too!
Flower Block Quilt Pattern by Side Lake Stitch
Speaking of flowers, I love this two-color quilt featuring bold flower blocks! The large flower shapes create a striking, modern look.
Houndstooth Quilt Pattern by Karen Griska Quilts
This timeless retro design paired with modern color combinations always rocks!
I’d love to know—which of these two color quilt patterns is your favorite? Drop a comment below and share your thoughts, tips, or go-to color combos!
