If you've spent time browsing Pinterest or Instagram for quilting inspiration, you've likely come across the term low volume fabric, and you might be thinking, “What exactly is low volume fabric, and how do I know if I need it?” Well, we’re here to put that question to bed. In this post, you will find out what low volume fabric is, learn how to use it effectively in your quilts, and find out why it’s an essential part of every modern quilter’s stash.

What Is Low Volume Fabric?

In simple terms, low volume fabric refers to light-coloured fabrics with subtle prints or patterns. They are often white, cream, light grey or very light coloured fabrics with delicate patterns in a similar tone. These patterns might include:

• Tiny florals

• Faint stripes or dots

• Handwriting or text

• Tone-on-tone geometric shapes

Low volume fabrics offer visual texture without high contrast, making them ideal when you want something softer than a solid but quieter than a bold print. Think of low volume quilting fabric as the background singer in your quilt - it supports the stars of the show without being distracting or overpowering.

Why Quilters Love Low Volume Fabric

Low volume fabrics have gained popularity among quilters worldwide for good reason. Here’s why they deserve a place in your fabric stash:

Perfect for Backgrounds

Low Volume fabrics create beautiful, cohesive backgrounds for high-impact blocks. Unlike plain solids, they add depth and interest without drawing attention away from your feature fabrics. Use them to:

• Frame bolder colours

• Add visual breathing space

• Make the overall design feel softer or more cohesive

Ideal for Modern Quilt Aesthetics

Modern quilting often favours minimalist design and negative space, and low volume fabrics help achieve this look while keeping the quilt from feeling flat or sterile. They’re especially popular in:

• Modern sampler quilts

• Improvised piecing

• Low volume-themed quilts

Great for Scrap Quilts and Textural Layers

Mixing several low volume prints adds beautiful texture and movement, especially in scrap quilts or minimalist colour palettes. They work best with:

• Greyscale or monochrome-themed projects

• Pastel colours and other modern neutrals

• Black-and-white prints for intentional contrast

How to Choose the Right Low Volume Fabric

When shopping online for low volume fabric, keep these tips in mind:

• Look for subtlety: The print should sit quietly in the background—avoid anything too bold or high contrast.

• Check the scale: Smaller prints are more versatile and easier to blend with other fabrics.

• Mix and match: Combining different low volume prints gives your quilt dimension without overwhelming it.

Final Thoughts

Low volume fabrics might not be the loudest in the shop, but they’re some of the most useful and versatile fabrics you can own. Whether you’re balancing bold focal prints, creating negative space, or simply adding visual texture, low volume fabrics help your patchwork sing. Add a few to your next sewing project, and you will quickly see why they’re a must-have for so many quilters.

Ready to Buy Low Volume Fabric?

Now that you know what low volume quilting fabric is and how to sew with it, take the plunge and buy some today!

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