How to Coordinate Polka Dot & Stripe Fabrics

Polka dots and stripes can be coordinated using the same color family.

Mixing patterns like polka dots and stripes can add interest to a design when done correctly. Whether the fabric is used for clothing or for a room's decor as pillows or curtains, coordinating these patterns can be tricky. Though polka dots and stripes are very different patterns, they can go well together if you follow guidelines such as color family. When choosing fabric, consider what type of project you are planning, and the overall style you are trying to achieve.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric

Instructions

1. Choose a color family. Polka dot and stripe fabrics can go together if they are in the same color family. According to the Better Homes and Gardens website, using one color plus a neutral can help coordinate the two patterns. While the polka dot and stripe fabrics should have the same color, they can have different shades of this color and still be coordinated.

2. Use different size patterns. If your striped fabric is small in scale, consider using a larger polka dot pattern. This size combination will help contrast and coordinate the patterns, as long as they are in the same color family.

3. Use complementary colors. If you would like to use polka dot and striped fabric in more than one color, choose colors that are across from each other on the color wheel. Combinations could include red and green, blue and orange or yellow and violet. Each shade can be darkened or lightened and still go together. For example, red lightened to pink can still go well with green and help coordinate the patterns.

References

• Style Agents: Mixing and Matching Patterns
• Better Homes and Gardens: Learn How to Mix Patterns