One of the best ways to achieve a really professional look in your home is by mixing and clashing patterns. Many people feel nervous about doing this, but it really is much easier than you think. Here are a few tips that I hope will help :)

Start small

If it’s your first time experimenting with different patterns it might be best to start with smaller touches, just to be sure you like the look. Try it with cushion covers, or wall art or even towels in the bathroom to see if it feels right for you. This will give you an idea of how many different patterns you want to introduce, and just how bold you want to go!

Limit the number of patterns

In order for the overall look not to be too chaotic try and limit it to three or four different patterns, depending on the size of the room and on how colourful you want the look to be.

Colours

It’s important to keep to a colour palette and try to repeat each of the colours in another pattern somewhere. Something I have learnt from experience is that pastels and bold colours don’t mix well together. I attempted to combined dusty pink with bold fuchsia in my bedroom, which just hasn’t worked. In future I’ll be choosing either pastels or bold colours – but not both!

Use different sizes

Try and use large repeat patterns alongside smaller ones. Generally, the rule is that the largest pattern should be the one that is used in the main. Then add just a few touches of the smaller prints.

Use different patterns

To keep the look interesting, use different types of patterns –  stripes, florals, chevron, polka dot – a little bit of everything! Don’t be scared to mix and match.

Keep one main feature neutral

Unless you are going for a very eclectic look, I would recommend keeping one main piece neutral. If you are using a patterned rug and wallpaper for example, keep your sofas neutral to break it up a little.

Maintain a balance

Try to spread the different patterns around the room evenly. This will help the look to feel more cohesive and less like you’ve just gone a little crazy in one corner :)

Softly, softly

Clashing patterns don’t always have to be bold and garish. If you chose muted tones and more subtle patterns you can achieve the look in a much calmer way.

See…easy? :) What do you think, would you have this look in your home?