One of the major mistakes homeowners make in home decor is ignoring the power of pattern in creating an interesting space. Fabric is an excellent way to introduce pattern into your space and there are so many ways to use it. I am a sucker for fabric patterns and textures and often buy on spec when I find a good deal. If you are removing fabric from a room e.g., drapes, you may be able to upcycle them. Don't forget about the beautiful fabric finds at thrift stores. Be creative. These ideas should get you thinking. Make a throw
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| Look for large scale textured fabrics and sew on a fringe to create a throw for your sofa. |
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Heavy fabrics work best for this application. If you think it is heavy enough to upholster a dining chair it will be heavy enough to pull off this look . If you don't like fringes omit that element and just do a double top stitched seam. FYI this image is a bought throw.
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| Upholstery fabric folded over a chair back - as simple as it gets |
Margaret Ryall
Frame fabric
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Matted and framed fabric art
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You have to look twice to realize these are pieces of fabric. They are so chic. The mat works wonders to show off the pattern and connect with the lovely blue wall. I would have them a tad smaller to work with the narrow space. That's just me and my need for any art to have breathing room.
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Fabric stretched over wooden frame
Margaret Ryall
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This is one of my favourite quick art solutions. Find a fabric that you love and works in your room. It will need to be larger in scale to read at a distance. Buy a stretcher frame in an art store or make one using pine. Stretch the fabric over the frame and staple on the back of the stretcher.
Cover a lampshade
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| Choose fabric for lampshades wisely |
Many DIY projects look homemade. The trick is to elevate your project into high design by choosing your fabric wisely. Ask yourself ...Would I find this in a store? If the answer is Yes -Go for it. If you think it will look like you made it --- pass! Aim for sophisticated design.
Fold fabric over an upholstered headboard
What a way to add and frequently change colour in a monochromatic bedroom. I just love the connection between the roses and the magenta fabric. Quick and classy.
Upholster a headboard
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| Upholstered headboard and matching pillows | |
No doubt this is an upholstered headboard done right. The pattern adds to the other plain fabrics in the room. It connects with the pattern in the art. Everything is perfect. Are you handy enough to create this look yourself?