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Accessorizing with Fabrics

November 5, 3:24 PMColumbia Interior Decorating ExaminerDawn Gagnon
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Fabric selections are an important accessory to any room.
Fabric selections are an important accessory to any room.
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Often when we think of accessories in decor, we think of objects like book ends, picture frames, and candles etc. However, no design accessory is as important or has more impact than fabric. Knowing how to achieve the best look in a design scheme with fabric is as important as paint color, or any other design element.

Fabrics work well together in any room when one piece is dominant and all other corresponding pieces play off of it. For instance, because of it's size, an area rug would be a dominant source of pattern in a room. When using a large item such as this, it is important that the color and pattern not overwhelm the room. One way to ensure that it doesn't, is by making sure you do not add any conflicting patterns elsewhere in the space. Patterns do not have to match, but if the item should be large in scale it is best if the pattern is somewhat subdued . Other patterns can merge with a subdued pattern in a room provided they too are subdued and in general not overly colorful. Fabrics displaying muted, neutral shades can work well with other pieces that carry the same muted neutrals, even if the pattern is different. If possible, it is safer to compliment one large patterned piece with corresponding solids pulled from the piece itself. If some of the pattern in the largest piece are colorful, displaying bold fabric accents throughout the room that are taken from the largest item will ensure continuity, and balance.

When considering patterns in a room it is a wise idea to think of the different elements involved. Color, size, and texture are all important factors. Fabrics that are solid in color that have a raised pattern will give a unique personality to any room decor. Keep in mind that texture changes the color of fabrics so if you are choosing a specific color, place a sample in the intended space and watch how the texture affects the color of the fabric throughout the day. The natural lighting of the room will certainly play a part in the look the sample will give off. You may wish to go a shade lighter/darker because of the texture and its reaction to the lighting.

All fabric accessories need to have a few common threads between them. Mixing textures can be fun and interesting to look at. By keeping patterns limited to one large piece, two if muted in color, you will have a room that is well planned and comfortable to look at visually. Finding the focal point of the fabric elements in the room is important. This is helpful in rooms where there are no fireplaces, or many windows, where fabric selection is the ideal element to be the focal point. You have to make note of what you want to take center stage and be the focal point of the room. Too many focal points in one room is much like too many cooks in the kitchen. They will not work well together.

Fabric Accessories Have a Big Impact
Fabric can unify design, or completely overwhelm it depending on how clever you are when you use it.

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