How to Use Checked Fabric in your Decor
Here at DecorTips, we’ve talked a lot about the biggest styles of 2019. One of the most exciting trends of this year has been checked fabric. It’s not only making waves on the catwalk but taking over our homes in the form of cushions, armchairs, bedsheets and more.
When it comes to checked patterns, the challenge is knowing how and where to use them, as well as what to combine them with. This will help you avoid tacky, tasteless decor, and get the stylish look you’re after. So, are you ready to learn how to use checked fabric in your home?
Types of checked fabric
Checked fabric comes in a variety of styles, patterns, and colors. These different factors can have a huge impact on the overall look, with patterns ranging from the daring to the understated. The triumphant return of vintage and retro styles has meant that these classic patterns have come back into fashion in a big way.
British rebel
When we talk about the punk movement, you’ll probably think of red and blue tartan pleated skirts and tight-fitting tartan trousers. These items are typical of the punk style, popularized by famous designer Vivienne Westwood.
If you see yourself as a rebel without a cause, you should definitely consider incorporating some tartan cushions into your living room. If you’re feeling particularly daring, you could even choose some bold checked wallpaper, one of the most innovative trends on the market today.
French romanticism
If you’re looking for a more classical, feminine and rustic look, gingham might be the perfect option for you. This typical sixties-style bi-colored checked fabric is perfect for decorating any home. We would recommend combining gingham with plain, unpatterned elements, choosing items that are the same shade as the dominant color of your fabric. In fact, so long as you use the same two tones, you can even incorporate a second patterned material.
Checked fabric: colors and their styles
- Reds and greens are perfect for creating a rustic-style decor.
- Blue, yellow and green checked prints are super retro.
- Gingham check with light pastel tones is ideal if you’re looking to create that homely feel.
- Checked fabric featuring light blues and warm brown tones is perfect for decorating Nordic-style homes.
Where to use checked patterns
Couch
A large sofa with earth tones, browns and ocher will instantly fill your home with warmth. If you want to avoid the classical look, you could incorporate Scandinavian-style furniture with straight, simple lines. These will form the perfect counterpoint to your checked fabric.
Another great option is the classic red tartan wingback chair. This will become the star feature of any living room and is sure to turn heads. When it comes to the cushions, you have two main options: while you can never go too wrong with plain cushions, choosing cushions with the same colors but different patterns is a great way to create contrast.
Cushions
Combine a selection of checked cushions, choosing a mixture of colors and patterns. However, it’s important not to go overboard. Adding some plain and neutral cushions is a great way to create more balanced results. This is a great look for any living room.
Checked fabric curtains
There are some beautiful checked curtains on the market right now. Bold prints and light colors such as green, beige, blue or yellow will really bring your home to life. However, if you want to avoid a fashion faux pas, you can forget combining these with other patterned fabrics.
Checked wallpaper
Wallpaper is hugely fashionable at the moment, and you can now find checked designs of all different shapes, sizes, and colors. This is a great option for feature walls and headboards.
One of our favorite trends at the moment is the half-wall, with the lower half paneled with wood, and the top half lined with wallpaper. We especially recommend this look for dining rooms, as it will give them a beautiful vintage feel that’s full of character and charm.
Other uses
Checked fabrics are also great for table cloths, lampshades, bedsheets, and dinnerware. If you love DIY, you could even upholster your furniture yourself, choosing the colors and patterns you like best.