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published by KatieDid Design
Tips on Choosing a Color Scheme
by Kathleen M. Peters, www.KatieDidDesign.com
Here are some tips to consider as you're developing your color scheme:
1. Unless you have unlimited time, money, and patience,
don't limit yourself to only one set of choices. Why? Because if you set
your heart on an unpopular or 'out-of-style' color or combination, it can
be near to impossible to gather together an entire room of decor items that
co-ordinate. Don't let this discourage you, though. Sometimes just a slight
change or addition in accent colors can make things much easier to find.
2. Compare your colors with each other. You'll generally
want to choose two or three colors - one or two main colors and one or two
accent colors - and either white or ivory as a base. This doesn't mean that
no other colors will be allowed, it just means that these are the colors
you will focus on.
3. Green in the many leaf shades is generally easy to include
in most decors - especially if you like florals. Almost any floral print
out there has green leaves in it - just figure out which shades you like,
and how much you want (main color or small accent)
4. What is the feel of your room to be? Bright colors will
give a more cheery feel, while subdued tones will give a more relaxed feel.
Light colors feel more casual, while dark colors are usually formal. Greens
and blues make life feel more slowed down, but reds and yellows look more
active and busy. White gives a fresh, new, spic-and-span feel, while ivory
give a settled, antique feel.
5. Keep in mind the type of wood that you already have
or will be getting. Look for examples in your home decorating magazines and
see what colors the professionals use with that type of wood. You don't have
to do what they do, but it may help you figure out what you like.
6. Also keep in mind that lighter colors make a room appear
larger, while darker colors make it appear smaller.
More information on color is available in the following articles:
"Color Basics"
"Creating Great Color Combinations"
"Developing Your Color Scheme"
"Color Flow Between Rooms"
"Tips on Trim Color"
Have fun!
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This article Copyright 1999-2004 - Kathleen Peters, KatieDid Design. Reproduced with permission.
Kathleen Peters - 'Katie' - is a custom window treatment and bedding designer, and owner of KatieDid Design, her online shop. She is also the editor-in-chief of Decor, Decorating, and Design, a free bi-monthly ezine filled with articles, tips, and guidelines to help with your home decorating.
http://www.KatieDidDesign.com
http://www.DecorDecoratingAndDesign.com
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