Design by Fabric, Part II - Inspiration Boards

We're back today with a couple more inspiration boards for you.  We took three fabrics with unique qualities and showed how the pattern and color could be interpreted and worked into a cohesive design.  We have a more contemporary damask pattern that incorporates a deep blue, a feminine lace-based board, and a traditional wool tartan.  All three feature a different color scheme, pattern, and variation in texture.


When you base a design around fabric, be sure to think about each element to the fabric.  Look to the colors, shapes, and weight of the fabric in order to build a comprehensive design.  Further, you don't have to use EVERY element of the fabric.  As you can see, for example, the wool tartan is a visually heavy fabric but when paired with bright complementary colors and light textured fabrics, the overall feel is light and fresh.


Until tomorrow,
Kate Matthies

Sapphire Blue Damask

Modern twist to a traditional pattern

Photos: Waverly, Erik Ekroth, The Knot, Heather Saunders Photography, Jasmine Star Photography, Wedding Cakes Pictures Blog, Suzy Clement Photography

Lovely Lace

Delicate & Soft

Photos by: Martha Stewart Wedding, Vineyard by Priscilla of Boston, MS Wedding, Junebug Weddings, 

Azzura Photography, Erin Hearts Court, MS Weddings

Tartan

Masculine and fresh

Photos by: The Knot, Z Media Photography, Linda Clifford, Ricky Chung Photography, Kickstand Events,  Jubilee Lau Events

Design by Fabric

I'll admit, I'm a total fabric junkie.  I remember walking through my grandmother's magical sewing room as a kid and feeling as if I were in a different world.  From felt to silk I learned at an early age to appreciate how the texture of fabrics, the warmth of wools, and the crisp airiness of linen can transform the feeling of a room.  The fabric store is a place I frequent looking for new patterns, color combinations, and textures to incorporate into a design.  


Take a walk through Joann Fabric or local fabric store and grab swatches that catch your attention.  When you get home sift through what you picked up and look for a trend.  Are you attracted to geometric shapes and stark color contrasts of a modern print?  Or are you overwhelmed with the tranquility of an ice blue silk with a sleek sheen?  You can often find the style you're looking for based on the fabrics you choose.  


The board I put together features a bed linen from Urban Outfitters.  I find the swooping pattern lines and complementary color scheme exciting and fresh...perfect for a summer bash.  What do you think?


Until tomorrow,
Kate Matthies

Photos by: Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, Zenadia Design, Corbin Gurkin Photography, Starry-eyed Studios

Tomorrow's post will feature more boards based on a variety of fabrics... see you then!