I was inspired by an article in the Better Homes and Gardens February 2010 magazine called 30 Tips & Tricks for Choosing, Using, and Loving Color. I am finding that color isn't the easiest thing for a lot of people to implement into their homes. Fear is a big factor, know-how is another. I don't intend to plagerize this article, but wanted to pull a few of the tips and tricks that I found the most helpful and perhaps add my two cents. (Hopefully the credit I gave will cover any plagerism issues).
#1 - Pick colors using an object as your guide -- souvenirs, dishes, blankets -- any object really that you just can't get enough of can give a great start for some color inspiration.
#3 - Use different shades of a single color. Vary the texture too.
#8 - Don't be distracted by variations in color between fabrics and walls. These actually are nice to have.
#11 - Break up matchy furniture with a painted piece
#17 - Play up color in the accessories - lamp shades, throws, artwork ...
#21 - To give the illusion of a larger space in a small one, use neutral colors on the walls and upholstered furniture. To further this illusion, match the walls to the furniture (or something close)
#22 - Use off white instead of white
#25 - In the bedroom, pick out your bedding first, then pick the paint color.
#29 - Wallpaper or paint the inside of a bookcase (or some other piece)
