Fabric love – how to mix patterns and colours like a pro

Spring is here, and with it comes the traditional release of all new and wonderful fabrics bursting with vibrant colours, patterns and textures. As a designer, I look forward to the start of a new project. I enjoy pouring over fabric books gathering ideas and direction and have been known to design an entire space just from the inspiration of one fabric.

Fabric is tactile, and the feel of lush soft velvets, the beauty of some richly woven silks and the simplicity and texture of coarsely woven linen accompanied by rich, saturated colours is enough to inspire anyone to decorate. The question, however, is with all of these fabrics and patterns to select from how do you know what works together to achieve that “designer look” in your home.

Blending a minimum of three patterns

Blending all different fabrics together is not as difficult as you may think, but there are a few key points to remember. To successfully mix fabric patterns like a pro a good place to start would be with something simple like blending a minimum of three fabric patterns. The first pattern selection should be your most impactful one therefore, choose carefully and select a pattern you love that is larger scale.

The second pattern should be completely different, probably about half the scale of the first one and have some of the same colours incorporated throughout.

For the third selection, it can be smaller scale and similar in pattern to either of the first two, with at least two to three of the colours found in the other patterns. So, for example, if you have selected a large-scale floral as your first pattern, the second could perhaps be a bold stripe or a geometric fretwork pattern, and then blend in another small-scale alternate geometric.

Consider adding another pattern or two, or three, if you wish; maybe a small check, a dot pattern is always favourable, or perhaps repeat with another stripe or floral. If you’re more adventurous, consider throwing an animal print into the mix for a bit of fun.

Balancing textures and fabric weight is also important to achieve a well-blended mix of fabrics, as is maintaining the same depth or magnitude of colour. By that, I mean if you’re working with primary colours, then try not to incorporate fabrics that are pastels, as you will inevitably create an imbalance.

Pairing up your choices

When combining and layering patterns, it is important to balance the patterns throughout your space, the last thing you’ll want to do is create a situation where the heavier weight of patterns and colours are all at one end of the room. They should be well proportioned with solids and any other visible patterns in your room, such as area rugs, wall coverings, fireplace surrounds to provide equilibrium and an aesthetically pleasing look. In addition, it’s important when pairing up your choices to consider the “feel” of the fabrics you’re selecting – for example, whether they are formal or more casual – and then maintain consistency.

Pattern blending can be fun, and these fabrics can create a bold statement in your home. Mixing fabrics like a pro is all about balance, layering and blending. When it’s done well, contrasting but complementary patterns and textures can elevate your space beyond the typical to a fresh, innovative and welcoming home. Toiles, stripes, florals, ikats and check are just some of the many different patterns we see, blend them with rich velvets, textural boucle, linens or silks to give your home that designer touch.

Just remember to keep a common element, and work with your scales and colours to see your home come alive.