How do you choose colors for your upholstery project? Whether it’s an accent chair, a sofa or a simple cushion, a new color choice can change the mood of an entire room. Here are four exercises to help you find what’s right for your personal taste.
Look to the natural world…
Imagine a pleasant outdoor experience you’ve had – not just the visual, but the sounds, smells, flavors and tactile senses that made that place special. Do you daydream of sinking your toes into a sandy beach and swimming in turquoise waters? Then a blue-green/coral palette might be the perfect place to start. How about that moss-covered boulder littered with tiny phlox flowers that you seek for moments of solitude? A chartreuse/fuschia combination might recall that peaceful setting. Whether you’re tapping travel memories or looking around your immediate neighborhood – you can find inspiration.
A special place may provide the best color inspiration
One possible fabric choice inspired by nature
Browse
Visit your local bookstore or library to peruse recent magazines. Find inspiration in art, craft and home design sites and publications – really anywhere there’s color that coincides with something that touches your heart. I love to search Google Images and Pinterest. Another favorite is Sensational Color. As you browse, pay attention to the emotional element – find a color combination that feels right to you.
OsborneandLittle.com is a site that provides great color inspiration
The color wheel
More of a ‘left-brain’ approach, the color wheel provides an easy ‘at-a-glance’ guide for choosing two or more colors. Any combination that is complimentary (2 colors), split complimentary (3 colors), triad (3 colors) or tetrad (4 colors) is a workable medley. Choose your key color(s) by spinning the top layer of the wheel and see what works together!
An affordable color wheel will give you a starting point for choosing fabric colors.
Your Favorite Things
Here’s one I love: Focus on a special painting or art piece at home. Choose an item that holds sentimental value for you, a gift from a loved one or perhaps a souvenir from your travels. Begin your fabric search using colors from that item. Tying fabric colors to cherished items has a way of bringing treasured memories to life…
Pulling colors from a favorite rug may be just the thing – here’s a bright multicolored design from Sonya Winner
These are just a few of many approaches to choosing color for your home. If you’d like to learn more about color, fabric and natural upholstery techniques, join our mailing list to receive timely tips each month in your inbox.
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I love this angle and the bright cheery colors. Made muy day. Thanks.