Textiles & Patterns that Add Depth
Textiles add the perfect amount of interest, personality and depth to a space. I like to think of it as the “seasoning” that guides the space and shows off the flavor of your style. Vintage? Geometric? Ikat? Feminine? Floral? Mudcloth? Earthy? Bright and Bold?
Textiles also allow you to bring in color, pattern, and interest in a very noncommittal way. Want to change your decor? You can change your layered textiles. It’s the perfect place to dip your toe into the world of colors, patterns, and texture and build as you go.
TEXTILES ARE THE SEASONING TO ANY ROOM.
I’ve been reworking our bedroom and trying to make it feel more like a vacationed escape because aren’t we all craving a little vacationed escape right now? I’m starting with crisp new white bedding from Quince that consists of organic percale sheets, a lightweight down comforter and a French linen duvet cover — all of that makes me want to say OO LA LA. I’ve been scouting and on the hunt for textiles and patterned pieces to layer on top to add depth and personality. Think of this post like you are coming along the hunt with me. I’m sharing resources I am scouting and adding to my wishlist for this space.
I’m currently hunting for lightweight textiles that can be layered on top. They aren’t so much a throw or blanket, they are smaller in size and feel almost like a scarf for the bed. I light little extra detail. But I’m highlighting throw blankets, coverlets, quilts, pillow covers, lamp shades etc. Let’s dive in.
Inspiration
I love the boldness and pop of yellow this textile in The Line Hotel DC adds on this otherwise neutral bed. It makes it feel bespoke and unique and gives the feeling of travel and depth. It reminds me that just one addition of textile can change the whole look and feel of a space. Jazzy big dangly earrings vs. simple stud earrings. Neither are wrong, but both give a different feel to the outfit.
Source: The Estate of Things
Source: Rita Konig via Coco Kelley
These spaces remind me of the goodness of layering and how much coziness they add. Pillows and covers go such a long way in any space. I’m currently on the hunt for a unique quilt that feels like it will become another member of our family. Maybe that sets the bar a bit too high, but I like to shoot for the stars.
How to search:
There are a variety of terms you can search for to start seeking out textiles that you love. This current list is by no-means exhaustive (I know I’ll think of a few after I press publish), but it’s a jumping off point to get started.
Turkish Peshtemals (like a very light weight Turkish towel that feels like a small throw)
Block Print
Turkish Cotton/Throw
Indigo
Mudcloth
Vintage Quilt
Shibori
Needlepoint
What: Pillows, Throws, Textiles & More
Textiles and patterns can be added through pillows, throws, and rugs and also through lampshades, towels, and other miscellaneous goods. Vintage quilts, textiles, and patterns are a great place to add some umami to your spaces. We are so, so lucky to have the amazing textile shop, Hillfolk, in our town. If you are needing inspiration, seek out how boutiques and unique businesses add textiles and interest to their space.
My gal pal, Danae, from The Homebody House, recently framed and hung a vintage rug in her home! How stinking cool, right?! Such a cool way to display a textile and add depth that feels unique and personal. So don’t box yourself in and let your imagination run wild. Even a tablecloth draped over a bed could be beautiful (like this block-print one).
My mom has always been really creative and taken pride and care in creating a home. She weaves together new purchases and things she has created with heirlooms that have been passed down. She used textiles in unique ways, like framing Ukrainian needlepoint pillow covers that were woven by my great-grandparents. They are beautiful and it was a fun (and kind friendly) way to celebrate and display them without using them for their intended purpose.
Source: The Homebody House
Some Pillow Ideas to Dip your Toes In:
One thing to note: Don’t think of this as fast shopping. This is not fast fashion. Think of this as an invitation to do a slow hunt and figure out what works for you. Find a small business to support. These are like the special jewels you can add to your collection. I’m going to share a few items that spoke to me and feel special below.
That being said- there are options available via mainstream shops and sources. I’ve linked both, and I encourage to you to check out Etsy, your local boutiques, and other small businesses via instagram or word of mouth.
What I’m Scouting:
I’m sharing my actual finds and things on my wishlist. I’m seeking out Turkish peshtemals or block print light throws that I can layer on top of our duvet comforters for an easy breezy look. I would also love to find some gorgeous antique quilts/blankets/textiles to add in. I’m scouting this vintage Indian hand-blocked quilt. I’m also scouting this Indigo Mudcloth Hand Loomed Throw .
I found this textile on Etsy and it looks like the perfect piece that can be draped over a queen bed, or the back of a couch, or a chair. Doesn’t this colorful background look exactly like the Farrow & ball ‘Setting Plaster’ shade I painted our guest bedroom? This hand-woven, hand-blocked piece is high on my list for our guest space. Neither too feminine or too bold, just a bit of pattern and texture to add depth.
This hand-woven Turkish cotton blanket sold at our local boutique, Hillfolk, feels so incredibly special to me. It is an investment that could bring joy for years to come.
Source: Boho Hand Loomed Throw
Items to Shop:
I’m excited to continue the hunt and bring on some new flavors! If you’re looking to add a little color into your life, you can check out my pink paint post here or my post on English country style.
Hugs,
Meredith
