Choose Colors with Confidence

Some people find it difficult to choose colors for making quilts or art projects. In this blog you find tips to choose your colors with confidence.

Complementary Color Scheme

The most dynamic color combination is complementary, made up of two hues opposite each other on the color wheel. Children typically respond positively to complementary colors.

For example: Blue and orange make a bold statement.

Complementary colors

Monochromatic Color Scheme

 A monochromatic color scheme uses a single color and mixes in several shades (adding black) and tints (adding white). This color combination usually creates a tranquil effect because it doesn’t offer much visual diversity.

Monochromatic colors

Analogous Colors Scheme

 Analogous colors are neighbors on the color wheel. Combining them provides a bit of contrast. An analogous color scheme can be cool and soothing or warm and intense, depending on which area of the color wheel you use.

For example: green, blue, and violet create a calm scheme.

Analogous colors, neighbors on the color wheel

Triadic Color Scheme

 A triadic color scheme -- one using three colors that are evenly spaced on the color wheel -- will have contrast, but because of their relationship on the color wheel, the colors will always be balanced.

Triadic colors

Two-Color Pairing Scheme

 A classic two-color combination includes white and another color, such as blue or red. If you’re feeling adventurous, add accent colors such as green, purple, or yellow.

Blue & White quilts at Quilt Festival Houston

Start with a Focus Fabric

 Choose a favorite multicolor print and pull colors from it. Avoid the temptation to match the fabrics; just use a merry mix of colors and prints.

Be Open to Inspiration

Look at books, magazines, photographs, and clothing for color inspiration. Or find a favorite fabric that sparks your interest and work from there.