Mix It Up!
Mixing prints in home décor doesn’t have to be tricky or daunting! There are definitely a few rules to keep in mind. But, I think my favorite rule is you don’t NEED to follow ANY rules. In the end, it’s your house and your interiors should match your style and passions. Your color choices should make you happy! That said, if you find mixing prints at all intimidating, we’re here to walk you through some simple steps that will make the process easy and fun (yes!). Mixing prints and patterns gives a room depth, character, and texture. Other ways to make your home look elegant and expensive can be found here. Before you know it, you’ll be able to mix prints in your home like a pro.
I promise!
#1) Choose A Color Palette
Decide on a combination of colors that complement each other. The decor in the photo above showcases 3 primary colors: blue, green and gold. They all work beautifully together and each of the patterns coordinates because they are in a harmonious color palette. Other great combinations would be:
Black and white + a color
Cream and white + a color
Shades of the same color (tone on tone)
Groupings of all warm colors, cool colors, or mixes of both
#2) Mix Large & Small Scale Patterns
Now that you have a color palette in mind, work in some patterns within that palette. Combine large and small-scale patterns to make your space look interesting and balanced. Dominant and larger prints work well for artwork, window treatments, and rugs. Smaller-scale patterns are ideal for accent pillows, throws, and other textiles. And you can use either for upholstered furniture, wallpaper and bedding. The key is to have a mix of both.
#3) Vary Simple & Complex Prints
Blending simple and complex patterns together creates contrast. Don’t forget to throw in some solids. Patterns work best in a room when they have room to breathe. The eye needs a place to rest! Just make sure you have a common color or as I like to call it, a common denominator (the one thing I remember from math class!) so that the overall look is purposeful and contrived, not haphazard. Mix traditional patterns with eclectic patterns to keep things interesting!
Traditional Patterns: florals, stripes, plaid or check damask, chevron, herringbone
Eclectic Patterns: animal prints, Ikat, bohemian, geometric, toile
#4) Bring in Texture
Now that you have your color palette (check) and your favorite prints (check) just remember to mix in texture—vary the fabrics and textiles so they look and feel different. In this photo above you see combinations of metal and wood elements, leather and velvet fabrics, brick and rattan. The more variety in print and texture, the more comfortable and welcoming your space will feel!
Still not sure about mixing prints? Here’s a deep dive into some print and pattern mixes to get you started. If you have an interesting mix of patterns in your home, I’d love to hear about it. Please share in the comments!
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Amazing ideas. Thanks so much Susan for the inspiration!!
Love this!! Can’t wait to give it a try!
Thanks, Heather! Enjoy your day xx