Plainly put, mixing patterns is fun. When properly implemented, it provides depth and dimension to a room. It’s also a great way to show off your personality and personal aesthetic.
When it comes to mixing patterns, all it takes is one mismatched print to take the look from coordinated to chaos. Despite the thrown-together feel of mixed patterns, there actually is a bit of a science behind creating a look that feels cohesive, not disorganized.
Read on for nine tips that will demystify the world of mixed patterns!
Think Odd Numbers
For whatever reason, using multiple patterns together works best when you use an odd number of patterns. Three patterns is easiest to work with, but five or even seven can work, too.
Understanding Scale
“Scale” refers to the size of the pattern in the print you choose. Mixing patterns works best when you’re using different scales. The easiest place to start is to work with three patterns of different scales: one large, one medium, one small.
The largest pattern will have the most impact on a room, and the medium pattern should be about half the size of the largest one. The smaller pattern should pick up on colors from the larger and medium patterns.
Remember, the scale of the pattern doesn’t need to relate to how often the pattern is used. You could even use a single pillow as your large scale pattern!
Work With Color
If you’re new to mixing patterns, you might start by working with different shades of a single color. That doesn’t mean that the pattern has to be monochrome: even if the color is a small accent in one pattern, it’ll mesh well with the others. If you’d rather mix colors, choose patterns with colors that are the same intensity. Think pastels with pastels, jewel tones with jewel tones, and brights with brights.
Finally, remember your basic color wheel! It’s a great way to add contrast. Reds and greens work well together, as do oranges and blues, and purples and yellows.
Consider Your Patterns
Florals are a good place to start and are typically quite easy to work with. Pair them with “simpler” patterns like stripes, plaids and polka dots.
Toile and damask are more sophisticated patterns that will lend a regal air to a room, just as gingham will bring a casual vibe.
Animal prints are a great pattern to incorporate into a room. Used as accents, they almost act as neutrals. Stick to one animal at a type to avoid looking like a zoo!
Don’t Forget Texture
The texture of a fabric will have just as much impact as the pattern. Consider the textures of the different patterns to make sure that they work well together.
Remember to Mix!
Mixing patterns works best when you use totally different patterns. So don’t stick to three different types of florals! Let each pattern hold its own by choosing designs that are totally distinct from one another.
Spread it Around
Remember, you’re working with a whole room, so don’t feel that you need to put all the patterns in one area. Spread them out throughout the room and mix them with solid colors and natural textures to keep the feeling harmonious.
The Impact of a Pattern
When choosing your patterns, keep in mind that certain patterns evoke certain feelings or moods. Large, bright patterns will bring energy to a room, whereas smaller, delicate prints will produce a calming effect. Consider this when placing your patterned items.
Fear Not Imperfection
Playing with patterns should be just that—playing. Don’t aim for perfection: experiment with a variety of patterns until you settle on something that works for you. Some furniture or décor lines offer sets of patterns that have been coordinated for you—an easy choice, to be sure, but much less personal and fun!
