How to pick a color palette to use in coloring books

As an artist, even I have a hard time picking a color palette once in a while.  That is when I turn to reference material for inspiration. 

I will go through home decoration catalogs such as Frontgate or Pier 1 Imports, or search the Internet for colorful photographs. There is even a blog called Design Seeds that creates color palettes for inspirational use.

I had my mom try it out (she is my creative guinea pig on everything) and she really enjoyed this technique. 

Here is how it's done:

First off, grab those catalogs that you have laying around the house. You know, those home decor ones that you keep "just in case" you hit the lotto one day and want to buy that killer princess dog bed that matches your couch. 

Go through the catalog and look at the beautiful color schemes they use in their home setting photos. Sometimes they will even have the palette shown. My favorite photos just happen to be extra colorful and outdoorsy. Such as poolside or garden settings.  Example:

Once you've selected a photo to use, select three to five main colors used in the photo.  The Frontgate photo above has bright pinks, light blues, creams, and greens. 

Now the fun part, from your photo and colors you've picked out, select the pen, pencil, and/or paint you want to use.

Now color!  Don't stress out about where the colors should go or what it should look like. Just have fun!  My mom used one of the mandalas out of my "Creative Spark Coloring Book - Relaxing Mandalas" (found on Etsy and Amazon)

Once was done, this was her final piece. She has since then colored a bunch more using her catalog as inspiration. She did a great job.  What do you think?

Try this exercise and show me how yours ended up. I can't wait to see your masterpieces!