Kay’s Designer Secrets
Learn to mix small prints without the stress
SMALL Pattern = BIG IMpact
Hello Home Lover,
If you’re looking to add a little more personality into your home, playing with small patterns is a brilliant way to start. You can add a little or a lot, depending on your preference.
You'll know, if you read last month’s edition, that there are plenty of new collections out there to chose from. And the good news is these small prints feel much more modern and 'grown-up' than the hey day of Liberty's dizzying patterns.
So to help you get started, I’m sharing some simple ways to mix prints without it feeling overwhelming.

I want you to see that small patterns are not as scary as you think.
Small-scale patterns - stylish or scary?

Small patterns can bring so much life and warmth to a space but if you’re a design novice it can be difficult to know where to start.
The secret? Mix different pattern sizes, stick to a clear colour palette, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
Whether it’s ditsy florals, fine stripes, or neat geometrics, small prints can layer beautifully into your home without feeling fussy.
And without feeling “too much”.
Need more inspiration?
Check out the fabulous brands I'm sharing in My Favourite 5... below.
My favourite 5...
Small Pattern Picks
Wallcoverings that wow
Annika Reed promises to create fabrics and wallcoverings 'where imagination flourishes and everyday spaces become magical realms.' Worth exploring!
Statement sofas
There's a lot to love about Romo's collections this season, from stylish sofas to mix and match accessories in soft, natural palettes.
Perfectly framed
These Harlequin borders from Ottoline offer the opportunity to add small pattern detail in a delightfully subtle way.
Keep it simple with cute cushions
You'll find small patterns and geometric prints aplenty in Birdie Fortescue's gorgeous new range of soft furnishings.
Lampshades to layer up
These patterned lampshades from Fermoie will light up your designs. Mix with larger scale prints and plains for best effect.
How to use small patterns with confidence
Inspired to add a small pattern or print to your home and can’t wait to get started?
Here are a few tips, as well as a link to my latest blog where you’ll find everything you need to know:
- Start with a statement large pattern you love
- Pull your colour palette from it. I think 3 to 5 colours work best
- Mix small, medium, and large scales for balance
- Add trims or borders to busy patterns to frame them neatly
- And finally, trust your instincts and have fun with it!
As this beautiful Cox & Cox parasol proves, small prints are not just for inside, they look stunning when used to create outdoor spaces too.
So that's what we'll be talking about next month.
I've been busy researching garden furniture and design for my own new terrace as well as for a client and I can't wait to share some of the gorgeous items I've found.
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Meanwhile, don't forget I always love to learn more about your upcoming projects.
Book a complimentary 30 minute call and we can have a chat about how I could help you transform your home this year.
Enjoy the sunshine,
P.S. So, what do you think? Are small prints stylish or scary? Send me an email and let me know...
Meanwhile, I send out Kay's Designer Secrets as an email newsletter each month, filled with lots of ideas and inspiration. If you enjoyed this edition and would like to be first to receive the next one, you can sign up to my mailing list
here.
