Since I LOVE fabrics and am in the business of marrying fine upholstered pieces with just the right fabric, I am always interested in good advice about how to select fabrics for the home. Fabrics are not inexpensive and a decision, once made, is difficult to reverse or modify.
Here are some bits of wisdom from renowned designers about selecting just that right fabric:
Here are their top tips:
1. Have a starting point. "When
I'm fabric shopping, I start with what I call the 'main fabric,' that fabric is
the linchpin from which I can pull all of the other colors," says Alexa
Hampton."Sometimes the main fabric can just cover something small, like a
pillow or a lamp shade, but it is the critical element that I need to inspire
all of the other colors and patterns."
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Good example of creating a color palette by using small amounts of fabrics on the accent pillows - you can just envision the rest of the room with these starting points - source HGTV. |
2. Incorporate a blend of textures.
"When pulling fabrics for a project I like to incorporate a blend of textures
like linens, velvets and grasscloth to create a warm balance and give a rich
palette to a room," says Jenny Wolf.
3. Have fun! "It is always
important to have a little fun when pulling fabrics, even if it is just for a
small accent pillow to throw in the room,' says Wolf. "Chelsea Textiles
has some of the most wonderful, whimsical embroidered fabrics."
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I think of fun fabrics as ones with colors and pattern/movement - here are some examples I've used and/or will be using soon. The bright yellow pattern on top was used on a settee and matching chair and selected by my daughter as a house-warming gift when she moved into her new home during the summer. There, it brightens her entry foyer and welcomes her guests with its sunny disposition. |
4. Think in layers. "Different
fabrics and textiles are a great way to layer a room and give it warmth,"
says Eddie Lee. "Coordinating patterns or a monochromatic palate in
different textures or solid blocks of color, multiple fabrics give a room
depth."
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Even in this monochromatic room, the various layers complement each other and make the overall look more interesting - source Traditional Home |
5. Be appropriate. "A fabric may be beautiful, but
not be right for every room," explains Lee. "For example, a gorgeous
embroidered silk could be great in a living room, but not so much in a Family
Room. That being said, there are no set rules." link
I have a board on pinterest devoted to fabrics -
link. Check out some more ideas here!
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