Pantone COTY

Unexpected, underwhelming, unimpressive, ridiculous. Those were all reactions from folks in the quilting community yesterday when Pantone announced their 2026 Color of the Year, Cloud Dancer. "A lofty white that serves as a symbol of calming influence in a society rediscovering the value of quiet reflection. A billowy white imbued with serenity, PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer encourages true relaxation and focus, allowing the mind to wander and creativity to breathe, making room for innovation." Hmmm. I honestly don't know what to think, but admit to some disappointment.

But as is tradition, I'll share my previous Pantone-inspired quilts.... 

:: Mocha Mousse 2025 :: "Brew"

:: Peach Fuzz 2024 :: "Keen"

:: Viva Magenta 2023 :: "Verve"

:: Very Peri 2022 :: "Red Cross Meets Very Peri"

:: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating 2021 :: "Some Like It Medium"

:: Classic Blue 2020 :: "Utterly Blue"

:: Living Coral 2019 :: "Timeless"

:: Ultra Violet 2018 :: "Grape Fizzy"

:: Greenery 2017 :: "Evergreenery"

:: Rose Quartz and Serenity 2016 :: "Pantone Meets Bias Tape"

:: Marsala 2015 :: "Sizzling"

:: Radiant Orchid 2014 :: "Radiancy"

:: Emerald 2013 :: "An Emerald Table"

:: Tangerine Tango 2012 :: "Tangerisk"

It'll be interesting to see what the selection of white(!) means as far as the upcoming Pantone Quilt Challenge 2026 next spring. Now hosted by Sarah @bysarahruiz and Audrey @cottonandbourbon, debate is underway on what the challenge should look like. So stay tuned!