Part I: How to Select Patterns For Your Interior Space

Pattern can set the stage when it comes to finishing a decor yet so many people are perplexed on how to pick the right pattern for their room. Well, don’t worry, it’s not as hard as you think. Remember the saying “Keep it simple” are great words to live by when starting a decorating project.

Step #1 GET TO KNOW YOUR SPACE.

Start by decorating one room at a time. With a pen and paper make two lists and then take a good look around at your space. Note on one list what you really like and want to keep while on another write down all the items you dislike. You must be brutally honest with yourself as only you can decide and it will make the decorating process much easier.

Step #2 IDEAS AND INSPIRATIONS

Create a decorating journal to keep all your ideas and inspirations. A good start to figuring out what patterns you like is by looking at decorating magazines, design books and by browsing the Internet.

If your inspired from a pillow, a bag, fabric or piece of art or furniture you love, then use it as the main inspiration . Fill your folder with all the magazine tears, pictures and print outs of the items you want. Make a note on each tear on what you like the most in the picture, is it the wall color, a specific pattern on a pillow, the style of furniture, the accessories or the entire room that attracted you? Your tear sheets will visually guide you in creating a new interior.

Steps #3 NARROW YOUR SELECTION

Once you look at all the collected images, you will notice that you lean towards a certain style. Don’t be intimidated if the look you consistently pick is different from your present decor as you may have never gotten around to getting it done and you weren’t sure where to start. Now that you have done a little research you’re ready to tackle the project. Narrow down your images to a favorite color scheme and pattern.

Step #4 ASK SOME DECORATING QUESTIONS

These main samples will keep you focused on working towards your new look. Once that is established, decide how much pattern you want to add into your room. Ask yourself a few questions: Are you adding a little or a lot of pattern? Do you want new window treatments or are you just going to cover a couch or chair in a new print? Do you want a new rug or will you start slowly and just add in some designer pillows to set off the seating area?

STEP #5 START WITH LARGE PIECES FIRST

Start with one area in a room and move from that to the next as it will keep you in an orderly fashion to decorating the space. Make notes in your journal as it is your overall guide to the entire project. It is best to look at the larger pieces first in a room like the furniture as it usually dominates the space. So start with your furniture and then move to the small pieces like side tables, chairs and then decide on your window treatments. Windows can add a lot of impact. A simple set of drapes can have a huge effect on a rooms decor and make a major design statement. After you have made these decisions, your ready to shop for fabrics, furniture and accessories to get the look you desire.

Once you decide to start incorporating your personal look into your home, you will automatically feel more positive while at the same time, feel more at home in your home. It is only natural to feel more confident when one is surrounded by their own style.

Part II of how to select patterns for your interior space will feature the effects patterns have in spaces. See you next time!
Jaima

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