Checks and stripes are very versatile for curtain fabric and can work well in any style of scheme, from relaxed country style schemes to smart traditional schemes. These patterns can be used in any room but choose carefully as some are more suitable for than others for certain schemes.
In a country style kitchen checks work really well and can be used as a smart curtains fabric or for blinds and cushions. You could also use them as curtains on your units instead of doors. As a contrast team with a striped fabric. These should be in the same colour palette and of a similar scale. For instance if you are using small checks then a narrow stripe will work best.
In living rooms what you choose will depend on your style and taste. For a contemporary scheme a striped fabric made into a roman blind will look very smart. If you prefer a more traditional look choose a tartan fabric in reds and greens, this will create a cosy feel to your room. Use for curtains and cushions, or perhaps as an upholstery fabric for a statement chair. Tartans can also be used in contemporary schemes and if you select them in hot pinks and turquoises you will be right on trend.
In bedrooms perhaps choose a subtle stripe fabric in a neutral colour palette, this will create a restful feel. You could use these stripes for curtains or blinds and for your bed linen.
In smaller rooms it may be better to keep to the smaller designs as a large bold design may overwhelm the room. However a statement chair in a bold colourful stripe could look stunning if the rest of the room is kept plain.
Striped fabrics in blue and white are also a good choice when creating a nautical scheme and work really well in bathrooms when made into a roman or roller blind.
Stripes are also ideal if you want to create a Scandinavian feel to your room, especially if you choose red and white fabrics which will bring a ‘folksy feel’ to your scheme.
When you have selected your check or stripe fabrics you will need to select your colours for the rest of the room. Pick out one of the colours to use for walls and flooring. Using a selection of different stripes and checked fabrics for a collection of cushions work well as long as you ensure that they are all from the same colour palette. Use one of these fabrics for your window treatment and then keep the rest of the scheme plain. Further accessories such as rugs, vases and lampshades should be kept plain to avoid the scheme looking too busy.
Checks and stripes come in a wide variety of colours, from natural narrow stripes, colourful bold designs and pretty pastels. There is bound to be something to suit your taste and style.
