Agreed! Panels are a great way to start a quilt. Also, you can go online and show him panels, and get an idea of what he likes.

Look up snowball in the search here. A few days ago it was posted. It's sparking gems from a 2011 magazine. I asked because I thought it would be perfect for a boy it looks like basketballs bouncing all over. I'm going to do it scappy with boys novelty fabrics but check it out.

It's not so much a matter of pattern as a matter of fabrics. I agree about using one of the fine panels that are out today as a center. Here are a few I have done. I make both bed sized and drag around quilts for this age, so I included both types.

Bug jar quilt would be so cool in a boys room.

I made my DGS a Mario quilt this past winter. He is simply addicted to anything Mario ( in video games that is)