TIMELESS TREASURES
Elrod notes that fabrics featuring historic designs are experiencing a resurgence. Often displaying bold patterns, these textiles can be based on antique and vintage fabrics, wallpapers of years gone by, and even illustrations found in old books.

Bright colors and fun patterns enliven The Happy Hour Collection of outdoor textiles by Phifer Inc.

What’s different

• New techniques: Some textiles inspired by older pieces are being reinterpreted using techniques not originally available. For example, embroidered patterns may be screen-printed or woven into fabrics. Or, companies may choose to use the design found on the back side of an antique print, thus highlighting the side of a fabric not meant to be seen in the initial design.

• New finishes: Many homeowners are drawn to the “worn, lived-in look” of historic fabrics. As a result, companies may wash, tumble or stone-wash a textile to achieve the desired effect.

Helpful hints

• Inspiration: Fabric manufacturers  some-
times derive inspiration from ethnic sources, including Suzani and Ikat weavings. Their patterns create visual impact and work well in eclectic settings.

• Recent influences: Although termed “historic,” these textiles can be influenced by newer designs. For example, Lee Jofa has a line of fabrics based on designer David Hicks’ work from the mid-20th century.

• Updated style: Metallic elements are being incorporated, creating a “newer, fresher vibe.” They may be embroidered, printed or woven into a historic-looking pattern.

Pillows sporting a Pindler & Pindler design inspired by a Suzani weaving from the 1880s lend an ethnic element to this bed.

Put to the Test

Tamara Johnson of Beau Monde Window Fashions & More explains that one way homeowners can determine the durability of a fabric is to ask for its Wyzenbeek abrasion rating. Here are the basics, according to the Association for Contract Textiles:

• The Wyzenbeek abrasion rating test was developed to predict how much wear and tear a textile can withstand. It involves pulling a fabric taut and rubbing it with a cotton fabric. The fabric is then examined for wear and yarn breakage.

• Look for fabrics that have a rating of 15,000 double rubs or more. The higher the number, the more durable the fabric.

• Keep in mind that several factors determine a fabric’s actual performance on an upholstered piece, including the furniture’s design, its usage and how it is maintained.

Take Good Care
In a desert climate, keeping outdoor fabrics looking their best can be a challenge. Davinder Chawla of Robb & Stucky offers the following suggestions:

• Dust can settle into outdoor textiles and eventually discolor them. To prevent fading and keep fabrics looking their best, hose them off at least once a month. In summer, when dust storms are prevalent, it may be necessary to do so once a week.

• To freshen fabric colors on cushions, remove their covers and wash in color-safe bleach. This should be done once a year.

• Most outdoor fabrics can be cleaned by simply spraying them down with a garden hose. If needed, apply a mild soap and rinse with water.

Native American pottery and textiles from the Museum of New Mexico influenced this collection of historic-based textiles from Kravet.

Everything Old Is New Again
Fabrics inspired by historic patterns offer a fine way to bring visual interest to a room. Stephen Elrod of Lee Jofa provides tips for successfully incorporating this type of textile:

• Be sure the fabric you select complements a room’s existing decor. Keep in mind such elements as style, pattern size and color palette.

• Historic patterns often work well on accent pieces. Try using them for throw pillows, to upholster a chair, or as draperies to “help the room take on more personality.”

• Keep in mind that the patterns found in many of these fabrics are gender-neutral, allowing them to be incorporated in a wide array of rooms and decors.