Vintage textiles

I have always loved fabrics, particularly furnishing fabrics. I love their patterns, colours, textures and repeats. When searching the markets and fairs i go to for Iris & Mabel, my attention often focuses on the beautiful piles of old remnants stacked high, the antique quilts and patchwork in their pretty formations or the pastel paisley eiderdowns and cosy woollen blankets. It doesn’t matter if they are slightly worn or faded as that’s all part of it’s history, like they have a story to tell.

Vintage textiles are a simple and lovely way to dress a bed or throw over a sofa. I love using them with white cotton sheeting, the contrast of the pretty colours and patterns with the crisp white background is both charming and eclectic.

Vintage fabric remnants are brilliant for making up into different items as you will often find they are sold in small amounts of meterage.

1) Make simple scatter cushions and bolsters

Really pretty to mix & match patterns so try using a contrasting shirting stripe at the back with a vintage floral on the face. You could also make use of an old worn jumper, try and find one with a fairisle pattern for prettiness.

2) Lavender pillows

So easy to make and a clever idea for a gift. They smell amazing and you can even place them in your clothes drawers to deter those beastly moths~use a soft brushed cotton or even an old napkin.

3) Make a windbreak for the beach

Use a length of sturdy ticking fabric ~ hem the top & bottom and make a loop every half a metre to make five tubes. Use broom handles as poles and head to the beach!

Use your imagination with a combination of different fabrics, it’s a great way to recycle and so easy to do!