Working art-inspired fabrics into your home can add a sophisticated, gallery-like touch to your space. Today, we’ll be covering three artistic textile designs styles: abstract, brushstrokes, and watercolor.

Abstract

Much like abstract art, abstract fabric designs lack a concrete motif and subject matter. These designs are often rich in overlapping textures and tones, creating a sophisticated look. The lack of a recognizable motif means they can transition into different interior styles easily. If you’re looking for a modern way to add color to your space, a saturated abstract print is a great place to start.

These are some of our favorite designs, and you can shop more here.

Brushstrokes

We’re particularly enchanted with brushstroke patterns lately. These designs emulate the look of a paintbrush and capture a sense of artistic movement. You can almost see the artist wetting her brush and moving it across the fabric.

This style represents a host of techniques. The brushstrokes can be soft and subtle in nature akin to the light touch of a watercolor – or they can be bold with contrasting colors. Brushstrokes can be dry and wispy, or thick and heavy; they may be long and swooping, or short and stippled. For this reason, this decorative style can offer a variety of different textural feels to a design.

Brushstroke designs are often found in modern spaces but they can be recolored to fit in most spaces. Many of these patterns are abstract in subject matter, though they can echo elements of geometry, stripes, or even florals. We love the way the soft movements break up the design and provide visual interest.

Below are some of our favorite brushstroke designs; you can customize and shop all our brushstroke fabrics here.

Watercolor

Washy colors, soft textures, and subtle tone variations are some of the reasons we love watercolor fabrics.  We also love how they can add warmth to a space with soft lines and colors. Whether the movement is in washy marks and strokes, floral bouquets, or landscapes – these designs make a space feel bright. Not to mention – this look inspires us to dig out our own paint sets.

You can view all of our watercolor fabric here.

Stay tuned for the next installment of our Textile Design Guide!