Color Principles

Use these design basics to learn how to establish a color theme when decorating.

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Filed under: How To, Color, Decorating

Color

Show host Sherry Ruggieri discusses how to create a strong impression in your home with color by following these design basics:

Choose colors by starting with existing elements in the room such as a rug, picture or bedspread.

Pick a pattern for your palette. Choose colors by starting with existing elements in the room such as a rug, picture, bedspread or piece of furniture. Whether it's stripes, plaids, florals or solids that build your room style, the colors within can be used as a starter to turn it into a very colorful environment.

Choose colors with the same value (equal amount of lightness or darkness).

Choose three colors from your pattern. These are going to be the foundation of your scheme. A great way to complement the colors is to choose them with the same value (equal amount of lightness or darkness).

When using a color wheel, begin by choosing a key color.

Use a color wheel. This explores the different combinations of complementary colors and allows you to look at different shades and values of colors. It is very inexpensive and can be purchased at a local art supply store. Here are a few ideas of how to use it:

Choose your key color on the wheel.
The colors that make a triangle with the key color are called triads and create a great color scheme.
To make a bold statement, use complementary colors--those located directly opposite of the key color.
Subtle effects can be produced with an analogous combination--the colors located closest to the key color.

Bring home samples of favorite fabrics, wallpaper and paint whenever you can.

Bring home samples. Paint and fabric samples are priceless to help pick out a color scheme and most wallpaper books also have fabrics in them that will help you match what's been selected. Pick some samples, take them home and live with them for a few days. The outcome will surprise you!

Hot Tip: To save time and money, try picking a quart of two or three of your favorite paint colors and test it out on posterboard. This is a great way to try a paint color in your home without committing to painting the walls!