How to Mix Patterns Like a Pro

Mixing patterns in interior design can be complicated, but with the right tips and tricks, you can create a space that is both stylish and cohesive. Here are some essential styling tips to help you mix patterns like a pro.

1. Combine different sized patterns

The first important tip to remember when mixing prints is to make sure that your patterns are different sizes. As long as you have different sizes of patterns, they won’t clash with each other 

2. Match the colors in your patterns

Mixing patterns with matching colors is another great way to create a cohesive look 

3. Separate patterns with a solid color

Separating patterns with a solid color can help break up the busyness of the patterns and create visual interest 

4. Vary Pattern Scale

When putting two or more patterns together, vary the scale of the design. Several small-scale patterns together can look busy, while multiple large-scale patterns can feel loud. But by combining a small-, medium-, and large-scale pattern, they will all work more harmoniously in a single space 

5. Practice makes perfect

Mixing patterns takes practice. You don’t need a degree in design or color theory, although I’m sure those would help! Still…mixing patterns is just something you need to play with and work at until you find specific combinations and a “level” of pattern you are comfortable with 

6. Identify major categories of patterns

To make it easier to understand how different patterns relate, let’s identify four major categories of patterns: stripes, geometrics, florals and more 

Stripes

Stripes, especially in a two-color, one-to-one ratio, are probably the easiest pattern to work with, so much so that you can treat them as a “neutral.” That means they can mix easily with any other pattern, almost as if they weren’t a pattern at all 

Geometrics

A geometric pattern is made of repeating forms that are usually very simple and linear, often using basic shapes like triangles, squares and circles 

Conclusion

Mixing patterns like a pro takes practice and experimentation. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to creating stylish and cohesive spaces.