Have you ever pored over a magazine spread showing an interior full of different contrasting prints and patterns and wondered ‘How do they do it?’ If so, you’re not alone. Even devoted design lovers can feel intimidated when trying to match patterns for a room and so they shy away from the challenge. After all, no one wants to end up with a living room that resembles a kaleidoscope! But with a little know-how, decorating with different prints is a lot easier than you think. Simply follow these top tips and you’ll soon be mixing patterns like a pro.
Keep Color Consistent
The easiest way to unite different patterns is with color! If you pick prints from the same palette, they will blend more easily – whether you’re pairing stripes with florals, or spots with geometrics. This doesn’t mean you have to stick to just one hue; you can go for complementary colors, but just make sure each one is present more than once around the room. It’s also best to select colors of the same intensity, so avoid mixing pale pastels with rich jewel tones.
Start With Three
While you can start off with just one pattern to ease yourself into it, interior designers often suggest having at least three patterns in a room. Just like when you’re arranging pillows over a sofa or succulents on a shelf, an odd number of objects in one area is aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Three different prints will add interest without becoming too chaotic, and once you’re feeling more comfortable, you can try for five!
Think About Scale
It’s also important to balance the scale between your three patterns to make sure they complement rather than compete with one another. To make this easy, pick one large, one medium, and one small print. It’s also worth knowing that a large pattern looks best on a large item, like a wall or rug so it shows off the design in its entirety. A medium pattern, on the other hand, works well on furniture and a small design on accent items.
Pick a Statement Piece
One way to start your new scheme is with a ‘hero’ piece that you love, such as a bold canvas or fun bedspread. It should include all of the colors in your overall plan, as it will set the tone for the rest of the room. Next, you can add layers of items that don’t match your main piece exactly, but that echo the colors or shapes from that hero print. This will ensure everything works together to create a cohesive look!
Space Them Out With Solids
If all of your patterns are piled in one area, your room will look lop-sided and possibly give you a headache. Try to place prints evenly around your space, and break them up with solid colors to give your eyes a rest. This method will also add contrast and make your patterns pop! For example, a black and white animal print will look striking next to a deep blue or green sofa. Or you can use white walls as a chic backdrop to showcase a range of boho fabrics.
Look for Connections
Another way to mix and match is by finding similar themes or motifs. If you love to travel, you could design your room around African textiles or Portuguese tile patterns. Or perhaps you’re a nature lover and are drawn to water-inspired designs or botanical prints! Traditional patterns also tend to work better with other traditional patterns, and modern with modern. So plaids and florals look better together rather than with trendy geometric prints.
Experiment With Accents
If you’re new to decorating with patterns, splashing out on large-scale furnishings might be too much of a commitment. In this case, why not experiment with smaller items that are less permanent, and can be easily swapped if you change your mind. Even with plain walls and furniture, you can inject plenty of fun and personality with low-cost patterned pieces like throw blankets and pillows.
With these tips, we hope you have the confidence to play around with different prints and patterns in your home! Overall, the key is to strike a balance between an array of colors and styles. Sometimes the best spaces come together in a more unplanned and organic fashion. If it looks good to you, don’t be afraid to break a rule or two!
Matilda is Marketing Manager in the International Team, bringing Zazzle to customers everywhere from Sydney to Stockholm.
Thanks for this helpful information Matilda. It’s always great to read the Zazzle articles and learn new things to help designers!