Adding wallpaper is one of the fastest and most stylish ways to personalize your space. But when it comes to mixing and matching patterns, things can get tricky. Too many prints can make a room feel chaotic, while the right combinations can look designer-worthy and cohesive.
In this blog, we'll guide you through practical tips to help you mix and match wallpaper patterns like a pro—without overwhelming your room.
1. Start With a Base Pattern
Every room needs a visual anchor. Start by selecting a primary wallpaper—this will be the boldest or largest-scale pattern in the space. This dominant wallpaper sets the tone for the rest of the room.
For example, a floral peel and stick wallpaper might become the focal point in a living room. Once this is established, you can build around it with smaller, complementary prints.
2. Stick to a Unified Color Palette
Color harmony is key. Choose 2–4 colors and ensure every wallpaper pattern you mix includes at least one of them. This will keep everything tied together even if the designs are very different.
- Use a color wheel to find complementary shades.
- Consider neutral backgrounds (beige, white, grey) for balance.
- Repeat accent colors across your wallpapers, upholstery, and décor. For example, a deep forest green from your green wallpaper could reappear in throw pillows or artwork.
3. Mix Different Pattern Scales
Variety in scale helps avoid visual clutter. Combine large, medium, and small prints to give your room depth and interest.
Here’s a simple formula:
- One large-scale pattern (like florals or geometric murals)
- One medium-scale pattern (such as dots or lattice)
- One small-scale pattern (like fine lines or textures)
Mixing patterns of the same scale often feels busy—especially in small spaces.
4. Use Texture to Your Advantage
Don’t forget that texture counts as a pattern too! Grasscloth, linen-effect vinyl, and embossed wallpapers can soften bolder prints.
Try layering a textured wallpaper with a subtle sheen next to a matte patterned wall. This contrast adds sophistication without overwhelming the room.
5. Balance Bold and Subtle
Not every wall has to shout for attention. If you’re using a dramatic mural or bright pattern on one wall, balance it with a more subdued or monochromatic design on the others.
Peel-and-stick floral wallpapers in neutral tones work great for this—they’re easy to install and remove if you want to refresh your space later.
6. Use Borders or Chair Rails as Transitions
If you're placing different patterns in adjacent areas (like hallway to bedroom), wallpaper borders or chair rails help create a clean transition. These act as visual separators and make the shift feel intentional, not abrupt.
7. Don’t Forget the Ceiling or Inside Shelves
Looking for a subtle way to introduce another pattern? Apply wallpaper to the ceiling, the back of a bookshelf, or inside cabinets. These small touches can harmonize your room's design without competing for attention.
Want to try this technique in your washroom? Use a subtle pattern from our bathroom wallpaper collection to elevate shelf backs or mirror frames.
8. Test With Samples First
Always test combinations before committing. Order small wallpaper samples and tape them to your wall. Look at them during different times of day to see how lighting affects their appearance.
This small step can save you from big regrets later.
9. Trust Your Gut (But Use Visual Tools)
If you're unsure about combinations, take a photo of your space and use mood boards or free online visualizers to mock up your design ideas. Sites like WallpaperUpdate.com offer inspiration galleries that can help you visualize patterns in real spaces.
10. Keep the Rest of the Decor Simple
When you're mixing wallpaper patterns, it's best to let them be the star of the show. Keep furniture, rugs, and accessories more minimal so the room doesn’t feel overloaded.
Final Thoughts
Mixing and matching wallpaper patterns is an art—but with a few simple principles, anyone can do it beautifully. Stick to a cohesive color palette, vary pattern scales, use textures thoughtfully, and balance bold with soft.
Whether you're designing a cozy reading nook or a modern entryway, the right combination of wallpaper can elevate your space and reflect your personal style.
Looking for designer-inspired wallpaper? Explore our full range of patterned wallpaper collections at WallpaperUpdate.com — featuring exclusive prints, peel-and-stick options, and free shipping on orders over $100!
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