matching on the fly

Ever been out and found something for your home that you love, only to hem & haw over whether it will really match when you get home? Here's your decorating tip of the day!

• Always carry a swatch pack in your purse

Gather paint chips in all the colors you have used in your home. If you cant find them, paint over a chip in another color with the leftovers from the can. If you've got items that are colored but not painted, like large floor tiles, grab a bunch of paint chips from the hardware store & find the colors that best match your "cant take with you" items.

Also include swatches of fabric from major furniture pieces, duvets, rugs & carpet. It might take some looking, but every couch comes with a fabric remnant for you to cut off. Try looking under flaps, cushions or inside zippered pillows and you should be able to find a piece large enough to match. Search for extra duvet fabric on the seams & be aware of any packaging that comes with one when you purchase it new, that might be helpful when shopping for that "perfect" accent!

Here's a glimpse into my current swatch pack, which I am taking with me to the fabric store today to help locate the perfect mess of fabrics to accent my new home!