Recently, one of our readers wrote in with an interesting issue. She is interested in making throw pillows from the Saffron Marigold’s Tropical Garden print, and pairing them with an Indian Summer bedspread. These are both vivid floral patterns, and she’s wondering whether the two will complement or compete.
Tropical Garden |
Indian Summer |
A global bedroom motif often involves layering pattern, color and texture, so I say that our reader is on the right track. Here are two principles that will really make this work.
1. Push the limits
Although it may seem a bit counter-intuitive, when bringing together active prints, more is more. Using only two patterns would cause the two to compete. Bringing in multiple patterns actually creates a cohesive look of vibrancy, warmth, and life.
Along with pattern and color, consider texture (satin, shearling, felt) and scale (bold, large scale pattern along with those more nuanced).
- Here are few resources for really fun fabrics and throw pillows:
- These gorgeous felted cushions from Looolo are made with sustainable materials.
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- Choose from Saffron Marigold’s variety of high quality Indian pillow covers, and it is easy to add global flair to your bedroom.
Paisley Fraiche pillow covers, by Saffron Marigold
Moonlit Taj pillow detail - Saffron Marigold
- Amy Butler always offers unique designs and patterns for home decor.
Amy Butler Poufs
2. Pull Together
We hear this all the time in life, but yes, balance is important! There should be a thread woven through your design that allows it all to hang together and make sense.
- Choose a unified color palette
– Here is an interesting website that explores color themes, and could be really useful in making palette decisions. http://www.colourlovers.com .
- Apartment Therapy hosts an annual colors contest, which is super fun to check out, and very inspirational. You’ll get some great ideas here: http://community.apartmenttherapy.com/contests/color/2010/ .
- Balance with neutrals and solid colors
- To the riot of color, pattern, texture and scale, introduce a few easy neutrals and solids. These will allow the eye to rest and will highlight key colors.
I’m hoping that when Deb has completed her project she’ll share her pics!
What about you? What have you learned about combining patterns? What moods have you been able to create by bringing together a variety of prints and colors? I’d love to hear ideas from you, too, and see your work.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Where can i find the bright orange and aqua paisley bedding?? its the last picture, and ive looked everywhere!!
Hi Carli!
I’m working on sourcing this for you… the original blog I referenced does not indicate what this product actually is (it’s just used as an example of paisley bedding). If you’ll let me know what you’re looking for (is it the bright orange and blues, or just bright bold colors? Is it the paisley design in particular, or any organic design?) then I can find some similar items if not the original you’re looking for.
By the way, how did you come across Saffron Marigold’s blog? (Just curious!
)
- Heidi
I have been looking EVERYWHERE for the paisley bedding as well! CANT FIND! Please help i am in love with it
Brittany,
Sadly, I cannot source that particular bedspread…. and I have tried! I’ll point you to another bright, paisley tapestry bedspread from Urban Outfitters… This one may suit your needs… Best of luck!
- Heidi