Fabulous Fabric Finds at Material Girl Fabrics
By Alana Lauren Photos Sara Bakker
Q: How can fabrics increase the appeal of a space?
It is okay to be matchy matchy, as it can make for a very calming space. That being said however, it does not mean your room has to be boring. You can still add plenty of visual interest by mixing patterns. Make an effort to use multiple patterns, solids or textures that fall within the same colour palette and you will get pleasing results.
Material Girl: Too often when designing a home’s interior, fabrics are seen as an afterthought. I feel they should be thought of throughout the design process from beginning to end. Before choosing paint and flooring or furniture, imagine
the overall look you would like to achieve and have fabrics be a part of that vision. If you are up in the air about what you might like, Pinterest is a handy way to help narrow down a general look, whether it be bright and bold, sleek and modern, or calm and classic. Then creating “boards” is an effective way of collecting fabrics, colours and samples as a whole. Having customers give me as much information as possible helps me narrow down fabrics that will best fit their space.
Another way to add visual interest to a space is through a variety of textures. Fabric is both a visual and textural experience, so choose fabrics that feel good when you’re sitting on them and make you feel comfortable. Personally, I feel fabric should provide the colour and texture for a room, leaving the walls and flooring to be subtle and neutral, which allows you to change up your look as often as you’d like. Q: People have been spending much more time in their homes recently. What are some home projects that can really liven up a space? Material Girl: Customization! Rather than settling for mass- produced store-bought items, let your home reflect your individual personality. We can customize anything and everything beginning with something as simple as throw pillows all the way up to coordinated window treatments and new upholstery.
Q: What types of fabrics do you carry?
Material Girl: We are unique in that we have hundreds of books to choose fabrics from; whether it’s for window treatments, pillows, upholstery, patio cushions or boats. We may carry exclusive brands such as Stout and Studio G. We are also unique in that we not only offer material, but can sew custom upholstery, window treatments and more. Fabric is just the first step!
Interior design by www.simplyhomedecorating.com
Winter happens to be our off-season, so now is a good time to get the most value for your money. A more intimate relationship with our shop means a greater experience in the overall design process. Seeing and feeling firsthand what might inspire you towards a new look sparks ideas and we are happy to help you select fabrics or work with an interior designer on your projects.
Q: Do you have any specific advice about using fabrics?
Material Girl: It is better to mix patterns rather than colours. Once you have settled your color palette, stick to it. Using too many uncoordinated colours in a room can make it feel hectic and confusing and therefore less comfortable.
Check out a few of our fabulous fabric options on the following pages.
◄ Christine Zareck, owner of Material Girl Fabrics
WINTER 2020 www.pei-living.ca
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