Hello Fiber Friends!
In this blog I will discuss 4 secrets to decorating with fiber art. I just love making and decorating with fibers & textiles. They just create a warm cozy feel to the room. But first a little history. I love history!
Basics of Textile Art
Textile art is the process of creating something using fibers gained from sources like plants, animals, insects (think silk worms!), or synthetic materials. Making textiles is an extremely old art form. Textile fragments have been found dating back to prehistoric times and there’s a good reason for this. Think of how cold winter can be. How would you feel if you didn’t have warm clothing? People developed textiles to keep warm, to protect surfaces and to insulate dwellings.
Textile or Fiber Art
Fiber Art can be considered a sub category of Textile Art. Fiber art refers to fine art whose material consists of natural or synthetic fiber and other components, such as fabric or yarn. It focuses on the materials and on the manual labour on the part of the artist as part of the works’ significance, and prioritizes aesthetic value over utility. From here on I will refer to this art as Fiber Art for the sake of simplicity!
Examples of Fiber Art
Examples of such fiber arts include tapestries, rugs, quilts, and of course clothing.
Many cultures around the world have distinct methods of making textiles by using materials available to them, and some have become famous over the centuries like Chinese silks or Turkish rugs. Today, many contemporary artists work with fibers and textiles in new and exciting ways, including using them for home decor. Here are some secrets to using fiber arts for decorating.
Fiber Art and Decorating
Scared of Going Bold With Color to change up a room? Try Adding Lots of Texture Instead. If color and pattern are too much of a commitment for you, take a look at this eclectic living room that’s punctuated by texture.
Movement & Pattern
Secret # 1 to decorating with fiber art. When using fiber and textiles for decorating it is about pattern and movement. Color and pattern definitely make a statement. The pieces look like they would be interesting to touch. I often have people come into my booth at a show and ask to touch a piece. Why is that? These pieces are things that make a room feel cozy, that make it feel complete. The textures remind us of nature. They provide the eye with something interesting to look at, but they’re also incredibly soothing.
Depth & Dimension
Secret #2. You know how sometimes you can just look at a room and know something is missing? All the components of a complete design are there but the entire room just feels a little flat! What to do? Add Texture of course! Texture in the form of fiber art is the thing that makes a room pop.
Fiber Art add dimension to a room. It appeals to our senses–both visual and tactile–which makes a room interesting. When you walk into this room you just smile instantly. You can add texture and fiber in the form of a rug, on walls with a piece of fiber art, or anywhere you can use fabrics.
Set the Mood
Secret #3 to decorating with fiber. In addition to creating a style, you can also use fiber art to set a mood or create an ambience. For a feminine touch add soft, fine fabrics such as silky pillows and velvet slipcovers. For more masculine add pieces that reflect the outdoors-metal and wood.
Create a Focal Point
Secret to decorating with fiber art can start with a bold statement. Every room needs a focal point from which to build its design. The fiber art piece you choose becomes a focal point because of the color, size, or unique design or shape. These pieces become noteworthy!
Adding fiber art and texture to a room can be fun. Remember to keep a balance. Too much can overwhelm the space and take away from the feel you are looking for.
If you are adventurous, why not create your own piece of amazing fiber art. Download my free tutorial and make some happy art today!
Happy Creating!
Anita
A great place to purchase Fiber Art!
Additional resources for creating your own art!