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When using color in your bedroom, remember that all the elements – from pillowcases to valances – need to work in harmony. This basic explanation of how color works will help you make better decisions about choosing colors for your room.

First, get yourself a color wheel. You can find them at art stores or sometimes in the paint aisle of the hardware store. They range from very simple to very detailed, with an array of shades and hues. Having a color wheel will help considerably when trying to stay within a color scheme.

There are four basic types of color schemes: monochromatic, complimentary, analogous and triadic.

Monochromatic schemes use one color throughout, but vary in tints, tones and shades. When using this scheme, try implementing a variety of textures such as satin, cotton, or damask for a more dynamic look. Color example: serene shades of blue.

Complimentary schemes use two colors that are opposites on the color wheel, such as yellow and violet or green and red. A bold dramatic effect is achieved by using various tints, tones and shades in the two main colors. Color example: muted to vibrant red with sage to emerald greens.

Analogous schemes use three colors next to each other on the color wheel. These schemes tend to be warm (red, orange, yellow) or cool (green, blue, violet). You can go one or two colors next to your main color if you’d like. Color example: all the shades between yellow and red – yellow, yellow-orange, orange, orange-red and red.

Triadic also uses three colors, but this set of colors are equal distances apart on the color wheel, which create a triangle. Color example: red, yellow and blue.

When you’ve decided on a color scheme, go to a paint store and pick up paint chips in your chosen color(s). Then be sure to carry them with you for comparison when shopping for bedding, window treatments, paint, and all the other accents that will make your dream bedroom a reality.