Do you ever have the urge to mix things up in a space, but everything seems incompatible? If so, you may be trying to clash several different patterns into one area. While you may have been under the preconceived notion that this is a design disaster, if the mix is intentional it can be a dazzling design.

You must keep in mind that you should not throw random patterns into a room and hope for the best. Here are a few tips to follow as you make your room pop with patterns.

Make sure to vary the scale of prints you wish to add. You wouldn’t want to have a pillow with tiny dots next to a pillow with small floral prints— this clash is a smash. What makes sense is to have pillows with tiny dots next to pillows with oversized florals. Also, you will want to have colors that are common to one another. These tips are key to creating a playful equilibrium throughout any room.

From your wall paper to the upholstery, as long as the patterns are not shouting at everyone you will be able to create an elegant look that works. You may be wondering about other areas to add pattern to in your room. Most people shy away at the idea of buying a patterned rug, but a carefully considered rug can be the starting point to a visually stimulating room. Often times, solid rug patterns can have a heavy look with certain décor surrounding it, but a pattern with a crisp and classic design can bring out the best in the rest.

In your bedroom or guest room you could create an animal themed room that can be tastefully done through several prints displayed from your drapes to your bed set. And don’t be afraid to add complimentary prints and textures to your wall décor that will help to tie in your theme.

These are just a few suggestions to help you get started before patterns begin to take over your house. Have fun with it and remember clashing is dashing!