How To Mix Patterns

2. Choose three or more patterns. Odd numbers, especially the number three, just seem to make things work, whether you're combining colors or planting shrubs. Three is the minimum number of patterns you should use, and the key to successful mixing is to vary the scale, from small to large, of the patterns.

Pattern 1: Pick this pattern carefully because it will make the strongest statement in your room, says designer Shari Hiller from Room by Room. It should be a large-scale pattern.

Pattern 2: Select a very different pattern that’s half the scale or size of the first pattern. If your first pattern is a large floral, the second pattern could be a plaid or geometric shape that has some of the same colors.

Pattern 3: The third pattern can be similar to either of the other patterns and use two or three of the colors in the other patterns. A smaller floral would work well, for instance, with a larger floral and a plaid.

Pattern 4 and more: Hiller suggests that a fourth pattern, such as a tiny check or a printed texture in a small scale, could be used as a complementary pattern.

3. Work with the same color intensity. Don’t mix pastels with primary colors, or muted with vibrant jewel tones, says designer Jayne Pelosi of Renaissance. A large floral, a smaller floral, a stripe and a check will work together if they are made from the same set of dyes in the same hue.

5. Watch your weight. Avoid putting all patterned pieces together on one side of a room. They’ll throw the whole space off balance, says designer Rosemary Sadez Friedmann, author of Mystery of Color. "Distributing solids and patterns smoothly throughout the room will provide an aesthetically pleasant look," she says. Consider, too, that other elements of the room, from fireplace surrounds to paneling, contain patterns that should be considered part of the grand scheme.

6. Consider fabric feel. Be aware that there’s more to a fabric than simply its color, says designer Pelosi. "All fabrics have a personality or a feel, as we say in the trade. Most people would identify damask, for example, as a formal fabric, even if they didn’t know its rightful name! Conversely, most people would agree that muslin or gingham plaid are examples of casual, informal fabrics. These levels of formality absolutely come into play when you’re mixing patterns."

7. Think function. Pattern can have a big impact on how a room feels. If you’re trying to pull a space together and create harmony, think larger patterns. Want to draw attention to one part of a room? Smaller patterns will do the trick. Also consider pattern personality. Busy patterns will up the energy level in a room while simple or pale patterns will promote calm.

8. Cheat with companion fabrics. Many fabric companies have made the pattern-mixing process easier for you by creating what they call companion fabrics, says Pelosi. "They’ve created two, three and four patterns all designed to exist harmoniously in one room. All you have to do is choose a color palette you like, and the patterns are already coordinated for you." This may give you the confidence you need to mix up more on your own.