Fun Fabrics for Summer Days

With warmer weather approaching, we tend to instinctually reach for brighter colors, lighter fabrics, and summer-themed prints. Whether you’re sewing a fun and breezy sundress, reupholstering a patio set, or crafting a set of seasonal tea towels, there is no end to the style opportunities. As you begin to think about the summer crafting ahead keep these summer fabric styles in mind:

Light and breathable fabrics:  Nobody wants heavy fabrics in the sweltering summer months! As we approach warmer and sunnier days, opt for fabrics in cotton or linen. If you’re crafting outdoor projects, search for outdoor performance fabrics, such as polyester.

Bright colors and patterns: Brighter days are the perfect time of the year to go bold and bright! Think bright shades of orange and yellow, or, go with the natural colors of the green grass and blue sea. If you favor neutral colors, whites, sandy tans, and pale greens and blues are a great way to go.

Fun prints and designs: The summer season comes with so many fun design options. Nautical fabrics and the summer season go hand in hand. Floral prints are also a warm weather favorite. If you want something that will transition well throughout the season, look for stripes, chevron, or paisley prints. 

The approaching season means fun projects, calling for bright colors and whimsical prints! Keep these stylistic elements in mind for your next summer DIY project. 

Essential Supplies for Novice DIYers

Here at 1502Fabrics, we believe that doing it yourself is the best way to do it! From simply DIY projects such as knitting a scarf to larger projects, such as reupholstering a couch, there’s no end to the fun and possibly. After all, there’s nothing quite like the feel of completing your project and saying, “I made that!” If you’re a DIY expert, you’ve probably got a good hand on crafting supplies that you need to get you through each project. However, if you’re new to DIY, it can be intimating to walk into your local craft supply shop. Here’s a list of some basic essentials to begin building your craft supply kit:

·         A great pair of fabric scissors. Fabric scissors are sharper and pointier than regular old office scissors, allowing you to achieve a crisper, cleaner edge.

·         Masking or painters tape. Masking or painters tape will carry you through a number of DIY projects. Whether you’re designing and sewing a kitchen apron or spray painting a vase or piece of class décor, these tapes are sure to come in handy. They can be used to mark a spot, without leaving a permanent mark, or, for creating an even line when painting.

·         A hot glue gun. You’ll find yourself reaching for a hot glue gun time and time again. Hot glue allows for quick and strong adhering for a number of different materials.

·         Pencils. This may be a no-brainer, but it’s an essential for any project! From sketching ideas and taking notes to making discrete measuring marks, you don’t want to be without this staple!

·         Clips of décor or crafting magazines. A little inspiration never hurt anybody! If you’re unsure of where to begin as you embark as a crafting, sift through some magazines! See a floral upholstery fabric that you love? Tear it out and save it! See a photo of a gallery wall that sparks intrigue? Keep it on hand! These images will surely spark some design inspiration for your next big project! 

Paisley for the Playroom

How will you create a fun playroom or engaging bedroom for your child? Choosing the right decorations, from classically inspired fabrics, is a great way to start! Paisley fabrics are fun and whimsical additions to any kid-space, full of swirling patterns and cheerful colors. Here's how paisley could make your spaces more kid friendly!

What Is Paisley?

Paisley fabric features an iconic curved swirl that is instantly recognizable. These interlocking patterns repeat in smooth waves that evoke an immediate sense of harmony. The design originally comes from historic Indian and Middle Eastern art, where this ordered, yet abstract pattern was commonly seen naturally on vegetation and flowers.

Why Try a Paisley Playroom?

Although this iconic motif is almost universal, paisley patterns are all unique, and you have a wide variety of options in choosing one that you and your child love. Choose some color schemes that might go well with your existing decor, and see how they'd look as part of this soothing design.

Because paisley also ties in with traditional floral imagery, it's easy to choose anything from bold backgrounds to mellow, muted surroundings. Wild, abstract compositions take children's imaginations on epic journeys, and more subdued fabric exudes a calm sense.

It's up to you how to design the perfect room for a child. Fabric is one inexpensive way to create a stable arrangement that your little one feels comfortable learning and exploring in, and paisley is almost certain to please!