Advanced scheming principles

Advanced Scheming Principles

In this lesson, I want to show you all the different directions you can go in with the same fabric as a jumping off point.

Tips for Creating a Scheme

• One avenue to go down is to pick colours within the pattern of your hero fabric, and select other fabrics in these colours to sit alongside.
• On the other hand, you can choose contrasting colours for a more dramatic scheme.
• Colours don't need to - and arguably shouldn't - match exactly. As long as the hues are within the same spectrum, they will feel cohesive.
• There are also certain palettes that you can enter into, and providing you stay within that family of colours, you can be quite free with exploring different options.
• I always like to add something dark into the mix to weigh it down and provide depth to a scheme.
• A check can be a really handy fabric to slip in as it offers subtle geometry and structure to looser prints such as florals.
• Another way to add weight to a scheme is through texture - as well as lighter linens and cottons, be sure to include heavier weaves and velvets. This will also help prevent the scheme from feeling too flat.
• Rather than lining a curtain in plain white, opt for a simple pattern instead to add additional interest.

Sourcebook

Rosebud ticking fabric, by Robert Kime

Yellow weave from Le Manach

Heavyweight corduroy in Ginger from Howe at 36 Bourne Street, available on special order

Constanza in Artichoke Green, by Susan Deliss

Georges in Empire, by Pierre Frey

Green Squiggle, by Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler

Leather from Moore & Giles

Elton cotton check in Mocha, by Schumacher

Paint colours from Paint Library

Varykino fabric, by Décores Barbares

Particles in Charcoal, by Nile & York - available in fabric and wallpaper

Eden silk in Cocco Ivory, by C&C Milano

Fidenza Ground wallpaper in Natural, by Schumacher

Small Damask wallpaper in White, by Blithfield

Small Damask wallpaper in Lime, by Blithfield

Moiré Stripe in Daisy, by Helene Blanche

Your Assignment

Have a go at this exercise by yourself: taking one hero fabric and exploring a range of different schemes using samples of fabrics, wallpaper and paint colours.