When decorating your home, don't be timid! You can mix and match patterns and colors, just be sure to follow a few simple suggestions first:
Start Small - When you are mixing up patterns, it can be a bit daunting. You don't know how daring you want to be? Pick a small area to experiment on. Use throw pillows or curtains or a tiny bathroom to try mixing it up first; then if you like how that works, pick a larger area for your next project.
Color Coordinate - When mixing different patterns in a space, using the same color or colors from the same family is a good way to keep it cohesive. Whether you have a floral print or dots or stripes, the patterns won't matter as much as long as the colors go together or are the same.
Showcase Solids - Make sure you have some good areas with solid color or no patterns too. A good balance of solid and patterned things will keep it flowing nicely and not make a space too busy.
Size Matters - When you are mixing patterns, using different sizes are important. A good mix of small, medium and possibly one large print as a focal point keeps your eyes moving around the room. Do have two large prints competing with each other.
All in the Family - Another great way to "mix it up" is to have a central theme to the space. Maybe a certain style of print (small floral ones, animal prints or maybe all different size geometric shapes) will keep it all working together.
In nature, nothing is all exactly the same. Just look out your window and you will see different colors, textures and patterns. You can have a beautiful "room-scape" when you Mix It Up indoors, too!
This blog was inspired by this article on RealSimple.com
