Repeating Elements in a Monocromatic Color Scheme Card

One of the color theories I teach is how to pick colors that work well together. The simplest way to ensure that you get a color combo that works well together is to do a monochromatic color scheme. That is, use only one base color on your project. If you make a card or scrapbook layout that uses the tints (the base color which is lightened with white) and shades (base color that is darkened with black) you are sure to get a card that coordinates beautifully!

Today, I found a sketch challenge at Card Patterns Sketch Blog that helps me demonstrate this idea very easily. First here is the sketch...

And now for my card...
I combined 2 shades of green...CTMH's New England Ivy and Sweet Leaf to complete the monochromatic look. The pattern paper is the Sweet Leaf side of one of the sheets from the Wings paper packet.

In order to add some interest to the 2 shades of green, I repeated the "dot" elements found in the pattern paper by embossing the darker New England Ivy with my Cuttlebug Swiss Dots folder. The ribbon I used even helps to carry the "dot" theme. Lastly, I selected the snail image on purpose for this card. Do you see how his body is circular and his eyes are dots? Once again, the image helps to carry the theme.

Using monochromatic color scheme on a project is a sure way to ensure that your colors will always "match." Make sure you repeat a simple element, at least once...twice is better, in order to add interest and texture. BTW - a shout out to Card Patterns Sketch blog...I love this sketch. For Now, Happy Crafting!