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Do you find decorating with pillows to be challenging? You’re not alone. So when Amber Lewis, domino’s  newest contributor, offered to share her pillow mixing tricks, well, let’s just say, we were really, really excited.

STEP 1: Color Scheme

It helps to zero in on a single item/fabric as a starting point.  Decide on a tone of colors you want to stick with from this item.  They should ‘jive’ off of one another.  Even though there may be several different patterns, they should share a commonality – colors! Let’s say you choose blue; you’ll want to stick to a set of cooler hues then such as blues and greens.  Then throw in just a pop of pink or orange to give it some pizzazz.

STEP 5: Quick Tip

A rug is a really good starting item to pull your colors from. You can throw all of your pillows directly on the rug and pick and choose the ones that seem to flow well.  Remember, pillows don’t necessarily have to match.  The patterns and colors just have to be similar enough so they can play off of one another and look cohesive.

STEP 3: Scales

Make sure to vary the scale of patterns and pillow sizes – big and small.  Having an assortment of pillow sizes and patterns helps to create a more balanced and interesting look.  Don’t forget to have a variety of textures too!

STEP 4: Balance

Try to balance out the different patterns and scales instead of grouping together the like.  When placing pillows on a surface arrange them big to small from the outside in.  This creates a type of ‘v’ shape and is the easiest way to give it a balanced look.

STEP 2: Patterns 

Mix it up! Grab pillows with different patterns and see what works well together.  Some good combos are stripes and a paisley print or tie-dye with a solid.