How to Combine Designer Papers – 5 Golden Rules

For projects full of harmony, style, and story

Mixing designer papers is both an art and a science. It can make your project absolutely stunning—or turn it into visual chaos. But don’t worry! Here’s how to master the perfect paper combo every single time.

🟡 1. Choose a Lead Paper

Start by selecting one paper that will be the star of your project. It should set the tone—whether it’s the boldest pattern, most colorful, or the one with a clear theme.

💡 Example: If you use a paper with large roses and French vintage script, that’s your focal point. Everything else should complement, not compete.

🟢 2. Stick to a Color Palette (Max 3–4 Key Colors)

A common mistake is using too many colors. Stick to 2–3 main shades, plus some neutrals (white, black, cream, grey).

🎨 Pro Tip: Pull your colors from the lead paper. Then find coordinating papers that repeat or soften them. Color harmony always looks more professional.

🟣 3. Mix Pattern Scales

Combine large, medium, and small prints. If every pattern is the same scale, the result will feel flat or overwhelming.

🔄 Example: One large floral + one tiny polka dot + one solid texture paper = a beautiful balance.

🔵 4. Let It Breathe

Don’t place five different patterns side by side with no breaks. Add solids, frames, stitching, or soft dividers. This gives space and lets the paper “breathe.”

📏 Tip: Use chipboard, tissue, vellum, or lace between papers—it creates depth and texture.

🟠 5. Stick to a Consistent Style

Avoid mixing vintage roses with modern geometrics, or baby prints with gothic letters.
Style consistency gives your project a sense of cohesion. Every craft tells a story—make sure yours is clear.

🌟 Test it: If each paper were a character—would they all live in the same world?

✅ Bonus Tips from Scrapbooky:

• 📚 Create a “paper palette” with go-to combos that always work for you.

• 📸 Take a photo before gluing things down—it helps spot clashes or balance.

• 🎁 Use paper pads or designer collections—they’re built to work together seamlessly.

At Scrapbooky, we believe that good paper is the beginning of a great story.

Our designer collections are made to help you create pieces that don’t just look good—they feel meaningful.

💬 What’s your favorite way to combine papers?
Share your go-to formula in the comments—we’d love to be inspired by you!