Gradient Wash

Gradient wash shifts color temperature across your entire quilt layout, creating a subtle warm-to-cool (or cool-to-warm) transition that adds depth and visual movement to the design.

What it does

A gradient wash applies a color temperature shift that flows across the quilt surface. It affects everything: blocks, sashing, borders, and binding. The shift preserves each fill's tonal lightness, so darks stay dark and lights stay light. Only the warmth or coolness of each color changes as it moves across the layout.

Think of it like sunlight falling across a quilt draped over a bed. The side nearest the window is warmer, the far side cooler. The quilt is the same, but the light gives it life.

How to use it

Open the gradient wash from the Actions tab in the Quilt Editor. The gradient wash sheet lets you set the direction and intensity of the color shift. Changes preview in real time on the canvas behind the sheet, so you can see the effect as you adjust.

Design tips

• Subtle washes often work better than dramatic ones. A gentle shift adds interest without overpowering the block design.
• Gradient wash works especially well with monochromatic or analogous color schemes, where the temperature shift creates variety without clashing.
• Try different directions. A diagonal wash creates a different mood than a horizontal one.