Global Patterns for the Kitchen | Clare's Wares | Resources for Log Homes |
Global Patterns for the Kitchen
Clare's Wares | September 2009 | Log Home Living| Ikat Tray | Damask Bowls | Batik Coasters |
Lately, traditional textile patterns from around the world—like suzani and ikat—have been flooding the shelves at some of my favorite home-decor stores. Not only has this given me a chance to broaden my decor vocabulary, but it's also provided a much-needed punch to the traditional pattern parade of stripes and florals. Plus, because these textile patterns were developed centuries ago in rural parts of the world, they have that part vintage, part earthy-crunchy vibe that fits in so well with log homes. Here are three of my favorite patterns making waves in the decor world.
| Ikat Tray The name might sound like the latest virtual pet from Apple, but the technique of ikat has little to do with gadgetry. Originating in Southeast Asia (the word ikat means "to tie" in Malay) but practiced widely throughout the world, ikat involves dyeing threads in a manner similar to tie-dye, then weaving them together. The resulting geometric pattern with fuzzy edges has been embraced by a host of designers in recent years, who have plastered it on everything from soup bowls to throw pillows. I'm partial to this World Market tray, which showcases ikat's trademark jagged threads in a refreshing blue-and-chocolate-brown color palette. $14 Call 877-967-5362, or visit worldmarket.com.. |
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| Damask Bowls One of the most recognizable textile patterns, damask's roots stretch all the way back to the Byzantine Empire, though it wasn't until the French and English picked up the trend in the 18th century that the swirling, textured pattern really became popular. Although it's traditionally been linked with stuffy historical interiors, damask has gotten a 21st-century makeover. Today, you can find the pattern in a range of fun colors—like the electric purples, blues and greens of these mixing bowls from Target—giving off a vibe that's feisty, not fussy. $20 for a set of three Call 800-440-0680, or visit target.com. |
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| Batik Coasters For years, batik has been the go-to pattern for injecting a little worldly style into everyday life: The traditional Indonesian block print has been imitated in countries from West Africa to the Caribbean, and has long been a favorite canvas for flowing bohemian skirts and dresses. But in spite of (or perhaps because of!) its hippie past, I think there's room in every home for a little dose of batik. These coasters from Pier 1 provide just the right amount of intricate pattern—at the right price, too. $2.50 each Call 800-245-4595, or visit pier1.com. |
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