Patterns bring life, energy, and personality to any space. Whether it’s stripes, florals, geometric shapes, or animal prints, mixing patterns can make your interior design look rich and layered. But it can also feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start.
The good news? Mixing patterns isn’t about strict rules—it’s about finding balance and creating a look that feels natural, yet eye-catching. Here’s a simple guide to help you confidently mix patterns while keeping your interiors stylish and harmonious.
1. START WITH A COLOR PALETTE
The secret to mixing patterns beautifully is to stick to a color scheme. Choose 2 to 4 main colors that work well together and build your patterns around them. Even if the patterns are different in style, they’ll feel connected if the colors are consistent.
Tip: Neutral colors (like white, beige, gray) can help balance bolder shades and keep the space from feeling too busy.
2. MIX DIFFERENT PATTERN SIZES
Use a mix of large, medium, and small-scale patterns. For example:
- A large floral rug
- Medium-sized striped pillows
- Small dotted or textured throws
Varying the size helps the eye move smoothly around the room, preventing any one pattern from taking over.
3. COMBINE DIFFERENT TYPE OF PATTERS
Don’t be afraid to mix florals with plaids, stripes with abstract prints, or polka dots with tribal patterns. The key is to find contrast while staying within your color palette. This creates interest without feeling chaotic.
Pro Tip: Pair structured patterns (like stripes or grids) with more organic ones (like florals or watercolor prints) for natural balance.
4. USE SOLIDS TO CREATE BREATHING SPACE
When you’re mixing multiple patterns, solid-colored items are your best friend. They give the eye a place to rest and help break up bold prints. Add solid-colored walls, curtains, or furniture to tone things down and let your patterns stand out in the right way.
5. LIMIT THE NUMBER OF PRINTS
While mixing is fun, going overboard can make the space feel cluttered. Stick to 3–4 patterns in a room, depending on its size. Choose one pattern to be the “hero” (usually the largest or boldest), and let the others play supporting roles.
6. TRY PATTERN MIXING IN LAYERS
Start small by layering patterns with accessories like pillows, rugs, and curtains. This is a great way to experiment without committing to a big change. Once you feel confident, you can mix patterns through furniture, wallpaper, or artwork.
7. THE BOTTOM LINE
The art of mixing patterns is all about balance, creativity, and confidence. By following a color scheme, mixing scales, and adding solids, you can create interiors that feel full of life and style—without feeling overwhelming.
Don’t be afraid to play around and trust your eye. Patterns are meant to bring joy, texture, and movement into your space. So go ahead—mix it up!
