Mixing patterns is a wonderful way to add rich, visual texture in your home. Don’t feel brave enough to try? Read on.
By Anne Krueger, HGTV.com
From plaid to paisley, toile to terrazzo,
marble to slate, pattern is everywhere—in nature, in fashion, at home. But how
do you know what goes together? Persian rugs and chintzy florals? Animal prints
and formal fabrics? Polka dots and stripes? Learning how to pack a lot of pattern
punch without making your home look like Pee Wee's Playhouse takes a little practice—or
a how-to primer like this one that deconstructs the process. Soon you'll
be mixing patterns like the pros.
Scroll over
a corner pattern to the left to view sample wall, accent and accessory colors. Then see how the points below helped create a successful pattern mix.
An inspiration piece, like a patterned fabric, is a great
choice for your sofa or bed coverings. This will set the tone for the room.
The palest shade in a pattern works well on the walls.
It can be in a lightly patterned, a special paint effect or straight paint.
Use medium hues from your inspiration fabric for your carpet
or rugs, draperies and other upholstery items.
Choose the deepest hues for accent colors for accessories, pillows, lamps or paintings.
Anne Krueger is the editor of HGTV.com's Decorating newsletter. She has written for In Style, This Old House, Martha Stewart Living and The New York Times. Patterns provided by Fashion Fabrics Club
