Scrapbooking Color

In scrapbooking color schemes, the monochromatic scheme is one of the four classics; the other three being the analogous scheme, the complementary color scheme and the triadic scheme. These four harmonious schemes are derived from the basic color wheel.

The monochromatic scheme is probably the easiest of the scrapbooking color schemes with which to work. Monochromatic colours go well together and support each other, as they are using one single base (or hue) in various values and intensities. You can use tints (a color with white added), shades (a color with black added) and tones (the lightness or brightness) of the featured color to enhance the scheme.

This scheme can look clean and elegant. It is great for layouts with lots of photos, as the scheme does not tend to compete with 'busyness' of multiple photos.

With scrapbooking color you can use a variety of products to pull schemes together; cardstock, pattern papers, brads, rick rack, rub-on transfers and stickers, just to name a few. You can also use other mediums, acrylic paints and colour pencils, to add color to your layouts.

You can use the monochromatic color scheme to establish an overall mood. Below is a list showing their attributes or characteristics.

ORANGE: animated, full of life, adventurous, crazy, humourous, happy, friendly, playful.

YELLOW: radiant, energetic, active, bright, cheerful, stimulating, warm, comforting, happy.

GREEN: soothing, easy, refreshing, clean, natural.BLUE: cool, pure, sophisticated, tranquil, peaceful.

VIOLET: dignified, sophisticated, regal, majestic, mysterious, moody, playful.

RED: fiery, passionate, sassy, speedy, excitement, elegance, strength, dramatic, gutsy, daring.

PINK: softness, feminine, sweet, happy, funky.

This list of course is only a guide. If you have a favourite one you wish to use on a layout, give it a try, and match up your favourite embellishements and papers to make a monochromatic scheme. And if you find the colors in your photos are not a match to your chosen monochromatic scheme, you can always change the photos to black and white.

Have fun with your colors!

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