By JOHN FOLDING

Choosing color in a decorating scheme is probably one of the most agonizing decisions for many people.

Color is used in everything. Furniture, rugs, paint, pillows, bed linens, bath towels, countertops - the choices are practically endless.

So how do you decide where to start and how do you make good decisions? If you are completely stumped, hire a professional. A decorator or interior designer can help lead you to making good choices in everything from paint color to quality furniture.

If you are more adventuresome than that or have a good friend who can help, here are a few tips to get you started:

Don’t be afraid. If you start to hyperventilate at the thought of adding some color to your décor, begin with paint. Paint, unlike wallpaper or fabric, is relatively cheap, and if you hate it, you can quickly and easily replace it. Color is our friend and it enhances our experiences.

Take baby steps and don’t rush it. Once you’ve gotten used to that yellow accent wall, consider adding in some color with fabrics. A few brightly colored throw pillows on a neutral sofa will definitely add some punch. After you’ve adjusted to that, consider a rug or draperies. Eventually, before you know it, your home will be filled with color.

Your closet is the key. Think about it this way: Your clothes have color, don’t they? Your clothing choices are a good indication of what you really like in terms of color, pattern or texture. You probably don’t consciously realize it, but if you open your closet door, you will see this is true. Look for consistencies you may not have noticed before. See a lot of red? That means you like that color. See a lot of khaki? Neutrals are your thing.

If you hate it, don’t do it. There is nothing wrong with what some consider “safe colors.” For those of you who think that taupe, khaki, and other warm neutral tones are not “colors,” think again. These colors can be kicked up with stripes, patterns or texture and never have to be dull.

In the end, if you want color, you have nothing to lose. Just get out that paint brush and head to the stores. An endless array of options await you.

source : www.sunherald.com