Choosing the Right Color Combinations for Decorating

These days, choosing color combinations for decorating couldn't be easier. In the past, you would need to have a basic idea of the color wheel and color harmony to make successful color choices. Today however, the paint counter at any store selling paint has wonderful color charts that do all the work for you by presenting combinations that show you how to mix the color pallet to get the look you want. However, if you really want to know how to do it for yourself then you need to know some basics that will aid you in making the perfect choice for any room in the house.

Learn the colors on the color wheel. Color wheels will show you primary, secondary and tertiary colors and shades therein.

Next, you must familiarize yourself with the harmony of color:

Analogous Colors are three colors that are side by side on the color wheel such as yellow, green and orange.

Complementary Colors are colors that are opposite on the color wheel such as red and purple.

A Monochromatic scheme is shades of one color such as black, gray and white.

Another consideration in color harmony is a scheme based on nature. The rule is that if it occurs in nature than it is possible to use that scheme in design even if it does not fit into the above categories. An example of this would be red, green and yellow.

Color contrast is also an option when choosing a combination. Compare red with black, white or tan for instance to see what contrast suits you best.

There are also a few considerations you much consider when choosing paint shades. You must choose a color that is a shade lighter than what you want on the walls.

Before painting red of any shade, first prime the wall with gray primer in order to get the shade of red you chose at the store.

Finally, you must know what kind of lighting will be in the room. There are lights with a blue cast lights with a yellow cast and then natural light. Each has a different effect on the same color making it look different with different lighting.

If you use these rules or you utilize the tools at the paint counter, you cannot go wrong when combining colors. Being armed with information should alleviate any fear you may have in choosing the colors that are right for you. And remember, in the end, if it looks bad just start over- it's just paint. If you concerned about fabrics, ask the fabric store for swatches or purchase 1/8 of a yard to put with your paint chips before you get started.

My personal decorating mantra: Just go for it!