Home Decorating Spotlight: Ikat Print
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I knew decorating with ikat prints was a design trend that was gaining popularity, but it wasn't until a recent visit to the mall when I saw it on a handbag in a retail store window did it the really hit me that this was the "it" trend. If you don't know what ikat is, Ikat fabric is a type of fabric created by a special, complicated process of hand-dying yarn or thread and then weaving it on a loom. Before the fabric is woven, some of the threads are tied off, in sections, and dyed. When the fabric is then woven with the tie-dyed and non-dyed threads, a distinct design of colors and patterns is created. The cloth is then used in a variety of ways, from apparel to tapestries and for home interiors. Ikat can be created from most materials, including wool, cotton, and silk. Ikat fabric is popular around the world, but is especially prevalent in Central America, Asia, and South America. Japan, Cambodia, Thailand and the Andes people of Central and South America all have Ikat patterns that are specific to their regions and heritages. Indian and Indonesian Ikat fabrics are known for their precise double Ikat, a technique that is very difficult. Thai Ikat was traditionally worn for ceremonial purposes and by nobility, but has since become more common. Mass production of Ikat tends to be Ikat-inspired prints and not the actual woven Ikat fabric, as it is too expensive and time-consuming to create in mass. Take a look at the variety of ikat prints and color options here...can you imagine the possibilities? There are bold ikat prints and there are more subtle options. Regardless of your style, you don't have to look far to find this trend. It's showing up on dishware, jewelry, fashion, and all things home furnishings from pillow, to rugs, to drapery and upholstery. It's a fun, eye catching print - tribal, exotic, definitely not "safe". Take a look at some of these photos for inspiration and see where you may want to incorporate a little ikat into your home decor.
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