Composed mainly of intricatel flowered shapes, the patterning came to be both punctilious and visually gratifying, plus there was substantial variety in the designs developed. As opposed to the first printed fabrics of Europe, which usually were an attempt to imitate the more pricey woven materials of the time, the Indian printed designs were noticeably determined by close observation of nature, the harmony of their forms together with their versatility to the printing method. Indian artists exhibited sizeable originality and talent in the planning of the design.

Indian bed coverings called palampores ended up being imported in great quantities. Terrific examples of Indian patterning, they’ve presented inspiration for countless textile plus wallpaper styles.

1. Choose a fabric you love

This will seem obvious but it’s vital. Choose the fabrics that appeal most to you and that you feel you couldn’t live without. By doing this you will gain further inspiration and interest but most importantly, the fabric will become the basis of the color palette for your living room. Basically, choose the fabrics you love, then worry about the rest.

2. Using patterned fabrics

Patterned fabrics can really accentuate the colors in a home interior. They are ideal for freshening up a room. There are a few things to consider regarding patterned fabrics in relation to the size of the space. In a small living room, large patterns across the walls and floors might become too busy and headache inducing. In this instance, it’s best to use the patterns to highlight a chair, curtain or rug.

In a larger living room interior, then patterned fabrics can be used with a lot more freedom. Very small patterns can be successfully incorporated thereby adding a delicate feel and ambiance to a big space. Think about the furnishings in the room. You can cover an old armchair with a more modern fabric-look. Little things like sofa cushions and foot rests can be covered which will create small features and highlights throughout the interior. These add character.

You don’t have to stick to one pattern-style either. Perhaps have stripes for one area of the room and zig-zags or floral patterns for another. The best thing to do is buy some samples and place them inside your living room interior. This will give you an idea of how they will look in situ.

3. Mix and match fabric textures

There are so many different fabric textures to choose from. By using different textiles you can add layers, movement and variations of the same color to a living room. For example, a red velvet covered cushion will add shine to a sofa whilst a red cotton covered cushion will diffuse the glow of brightly toned item of furniture.

Fabric textures come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and materials. They also range in price from very cheap to very expensive. Some of the textures you can consider include: velvet, cotton, silk, wool, suede, leather, fake fur, hemp, sisal, jute, taffetas and even bamboo and straw.

4. Revise the interior look

A well designed room will have balance. This is a vital necessity otherwise the people that walk into your living room might come away with headaches and nausea from too much going on. Blending well is key. You can achieve this by contrasting different sized patterns in the same location for example. Think about mixing stripes with floral patterns or zig zags with circular designs. Break up colors with neutral tones so as to avoid glare and an overwhelming focus.

Sometimes it’s best to focus on simplicity and avoid stuffing the room full of fabrics, even if they are all your favorites and look great. You can always add to the interior space later on when you have actually lived inside the newly designed living room for a few weeks. It’s important to step back, relax and gently revise the textures and fabrics, once the initial design process has taken place.

Interior designers and decorators use mood boards before and during the designing of an interior space. Find some magazines, newspapers and fabric samples and create your own mood board. Add some of your own doodles, paint colors and written ideas. This will create a reference point and also add further inspiration. It’s fun, believe me.

Using fabrics and textures as inspiration for a home interior will provide you with an array of stimulating ideas that will match with your personal tastes and intended charachter of your living room. By taking a little time to consider the four points outlined above, you will eventually be able to complete a living room re-design that will compliment your personality and be central to your home’s identity.