By J. A. Young
The many textures and patterns of fabric can transform any décor from rustic country to elegant formal. Used traditionally, fabric covers everything from tables to windows. Novel approaches to fabric might include covering everything from books to headboards. The versatility of various kinds of fabric is rich and may inspire you to revamp your décor with its wealth of design possibilities—and at a fraction of the cost it might take to purchase new furniture!
No matter what your decorating style, incorporating fabric—both formally and informally—creates an air of hospitality and warmth. A parquet floor and freshly painted walls in your foyer remain cold and aloof until the moment you add a rug or even a small table scarf to a hall table. Adding fabric can dramatically influence style while performing a necessary function at the same time.
Entryways, even very small ones can introduce fabric for a soft, welcoming look. Plain wood floors can be dressed up with a pattered rug while a busy tile pattern can be enhanced by a small rug in a complimentary color. If your entry has a table, consider a silk table scarf with elegant embroidery or a rustic piece of canvas as a table-scarf for a country effect. Walls can be greatly softened with fabric—even a small bit of tapestry with a scene can make great visual impact because it is somewhat surprising; framed prints are the norm, so an elegant piece of tapestry will grab attention.
The living room and den can benefit from complimentary window treatments in any style imaginable. Sumptuous Victorian velvet and tassels of chords can inspire a romantic look while airy white curtains may make a small room appear slightly larger. You may choose to incorporate slipcovers for your furniture in a pattern of your choice—neutral colors make changing décor easy as you incorporate more changeable features like throw blankets and pillows. A base color like ivory or tan for furniture and draperies allows you to change your décor seasonally—floral pillows for spring, red for the holidays, orange and yellow for fall and so forth.
Bathroom fabric can add great decorative style too. Rugs, shower curtains and window treatments are functional items that can add visual appeal when coordinated to compliment tile or each other. A plain white bathroom can be given a bold look with splashes of red fabric—even a simple nightlight with a shade covered with decorative fabric can provide a touch of style. Consider vintage bark cloth for a stylish bathroom or a theme that signifies a stylish era like Art Nouveau or Art Deco.
Kitchens can be adored with fabric on tables and chairs. Chair cushions add both comfort and style. Tablecloths can be changed for a myriad of new looks. For a sunny look, choose curtains that allow the light to shine through. Add fabric to cabinet panels and shelves for a cozy country look. Even cloth napkins in a pattern of your choosing add a great dimension to your décor.
Bedrooms can be resplendent with fabric—the bedding, naturally, will contain quilts, blankets, pillow shams, dust ruffles, etc…and the draperies may match as well. You can additionally incorporate fabric by covering your bed’s headboard or installing draperies to surround your bed. Dresser scarves, rugs, throw pillows and wall hangings can also help create the look you want.
Fabric can be used subtly in a variety of ways. Leaving your silk kimono on the master bathroom door can be a decorative feature. A vintage dress hanging outside the closet can also add a nice touch to your bedroom. From window ruffles to coasters, the uses for fabric throughout the house are varied. Consider your own home and how you can introduce fabric in unique and useful ways.
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