Timber & Textiles » Textiles

Perfectly Purple Area Rugs

Linda Harris — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 08:26:30 +0000

Purple has always been my favorite color. It’s such a rich, vibrant color, and each shade has both a fun and sophisticated side. It’s the perfect color for home decor, either as an accent or as the basis of a room’s color scheme. One of the best ways of working this marvelous color into your home is with purple area rugs.

The type of rug you’ll need will depend on what room you are planning on putting it in. In the living room, a dark purple area rug is bound to be a major focal point, so give extra thought to both the shade and type of rug you choose. Purple shag rugs will be intense and absorbing, and will really only work if you have a modern theme, but they will be smashing with black or white leather couches and some monochromatic abstract artwork.

If you have a more traditional living room design, consider using a purple rug in a lighter shade, or with designs that incorporate some other complimentary colors. You’ll be surprised to find that there are some really stunning Oriental area rugs in classic designs that make heavy use of purple, but in a much more subtle fashion than with solid purple rugs.

In a bathroom though, there’s no need for restraint. Go all out with bright purple bath rugs and some matching accessories. It’s a room that isn’t always on display, and you can really let your bright, loud, and creative side loose here. Consider using one other nearly neon or tropical color as an accent, such as using lime green curtains and toothbrush holders, or a fabulous orange instead. Or, you may want to look at purple bathroom rugs that feature modern, geometric designs for a cheerful bathroom that will make you– and your guests– smile whenever you enter.

The bedroom offers lots of possibilities as well. There is nothing as luxurious as stepping out of bed onto a soft, fluffy surface, so this is another room where a purple shag area rug will work well. You can find shag rugs made out of all sorts of materials, from soft fluff to fur, to wool, and even leather. You’ll have a blast trying out all of the different feels there are to purple shaggy rugs, so make sure to base your choice not just on the way it looks, but also on the sensorial experience it offers.

There are two more options that you should definitely consider. One has to do with shape. Since you’re going for a more unusual color, why not leave the classic rectangle behind as well. Oval or round purple rugs work wonderfully in many large home spaces, and are also perfect for beside a bed. If you do get a round rug, you can have a very nice contrast to the outer shape by going for a rug that has square or rectangular designs. This can really tie together your more angular furnishings with the rug, for a great effect.

One more option that can be absolutely fabulous is by getting creative with purple zebra rugs. You can either use one in a contemporary room, or for an even more sensational look, place a large purple zebra rug beneath a traditional dining room table. This look is a wonderful blend of the old and the new, and creates a truly elegant atmosphere.

Have fun while looking at all of the purple rugs for sale and figuring out which one will work best in your home. Whether you live in the US, the UK, or somewhere in between, you’re sure to find the perfect purple area rug for your home, either in a rug store or online.

Material Matters With Zebra Rugs

Alyssa Peters — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 15:22:51 +0000

Nothing makes a statement the way zebra rugs do. Adding a zebra print area rug to a room can take a room from boring and bland to the highlight of your home.

As when making any area rugs purchase, there are plenty of things to consider in terms of size, shape, and colors. But when buying a zebra rug, one thing that you’ll need to think about from the get-go is what it’s made out of.

Zebra print rugs come in all sorts of materials, from natural wool and silk, to plant-based materials like bamboo and jute. Synthetics are also quite popular, with nylon, viscose, and rayon being among the most common. But one of the most exclusive materials for a rug of this style is the actual hide of the animal itself.

A real zebra hide rug is something that anyone can own — as long as you’re willing to pay for it. The highest quality hide will cost close to two grand, with lower quality zebra skin rugs ringing up in the $1,500 range. Definitely not an investment to take lightly, at least for your average middle class household. But price aside, this will give you the most authentic look, and a synthetic or natural fiber rug simply can’t come close where quality is concerned.

A less expensive alternative that can still give you that coveted “real” look is a zebra cowhide rug. Cowhide, while still not cheap, is much less expensive than zebra’s hide, and this is a great option for people who love the look but simply don’t have the cash for a real zebra skin rug.

Wool zebra area rugs are also a great choice for those who aren’t interested in having an animal hide gracing their floors. Wool is one of the most popular natural rug materials, due to its high quality and durability, and if you are looking for a large rug, or one for a high traffic location, such as a living room rug, then definitely give wool thorough consideration. Besides the more common sheep wool, you can also find rugs made of alpaca, goat, and llama wool.

Finally, your least expensive and most common material for a zebra print rug is a synthetic material like nylon. Most small and inexpensive rugs on the market, such as kitchen or bath mats are made of synthetics. If you just want to add the pizazz without having to pay much, this might be the way to go. Another side benefit is that they are generally very easy to care for, and almost all washable rugs fall into this category.

Whatever material you choose for your new zebra area rug, you’re sure to be glad you decided to get it. Once that black and white bonanza takes its place of honor on your floors, you’ll see the home decor benefits at once.

A Faux Zebra Skin Rug Beats Its Authentic Alternative

Linda Harris — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 12:30:03 +0000

If you’re looking for a way to really make a statement in a room, then there’s almost nothing that can do the job as well as a real zebra skin rug. But while you’ll definitely achieve a level of home decor that’s magazine ready, you’ll be paying a pretty penny for that black and white centerpiece, not to mention very likely ruffling a few feathers. If you have any animal rights activists living under your roof, or even in your social circle, be prepared to take some pretty heavy flack for your new acquisition.

But you do have a great alternative available to you. There are all kinds of zebra rugs on the market, and you don’t need to splurge for a controversial, authentic zebra skin rug. There are many imitations on the market that can do the job quite well, some of which are so high quality that you’ll be hard pressed to tell the difference.

In fact, there are quite a few side benefits to looking at a faux zebra skin rug for sale, as opposed to the real thing. For one, there is the price, as we’ve already mentioned. Authentic zebra skin rugs at “trophy grade” can cost as much as $2000, while a faux imitation of the same size will likely be just a few hundred dollars.

Another benefit that’s worth considering is the maintenance. If washable rugs are your pace, then you should definitely think twice before buying a real hide zebra rug. It will need delicate professional washing, and if you don’t care for it right it simply won’t last very long. Of you opt for a less expensive and more hardy man-made zebra print rug, you’re likely to find that it’s so much easier to keep looking and smelling great, particularly if it’s in a high traffic area.

And then of course there’s the conscience factor. It’s sometimes hard to imagine in advance, if you’re not the kind of person to think twice about leathers and furs. But while animal lovers will often overlook your new leather handbag or shoes, a striking zebra area rug that looks like it just came off of an animal’s back is something that can feel like a punch in the belly to someone who really does care. Area rugs, no matter how attractive, are something that few people want to lose a friendship over.

All in all, faux zebra print rugs can make just as much a home fashion statement as the real thing. If these gorgeous white and black rugs are what you’ve had your mind on, definitely consider a synthetic version over the authentic animal hide.

Organic Flannel Sheets Are A Great Choice

GuestPoster — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 06:25:04 +0000

Flannel sheets are greatly appreciated and used because of the warmth that they give although this warmth may vary depending upon the thickness of the sheets. These sheets are also very comfortable to use because of their soft feel. With flannel sheets on your bed, you might find it difficult to get up especially during the cold weather. Typically, flannel sheets are manufactured using cotton and if the cotton used is organically grown, the product is referred to as organic flannel sheets.

The cotton which is used in making organic flannel sheets are grown without the use of certain pesticides and chemically-manufactured fertilizers. Identifying what qualifies as organic cotton may differ from one country to another since the certifying agencies in each country may have different standards.

Because cotton will need some protection against pests, naturally produced pesticides may be used and the produce can still be considered organic cotton. The price of organic cotton may be higher than the non-organic counterpart because without using commercial pesticides and fertilizers, the organic harvest also tends to be fewer and limited.

Customers may note the price difference between flannel sheets that are made from organic materials and those that are not. However, their choice on which type of sheet to purchase will depend on their priority. There are non-organic flannel sheets that actually give the same comfort and feel as organic sheets even if the organic ones cost more. In situations like this, customers may choose the cheaper non-organic sheets. However, if customers are very much eco-friendly, their final choice will still be the organic sheets.

There are people who believe that paying a little more for organic flannel sheet sets is worth it because of environmental and health reasons. Do not compromise the health of the family especially the safety of babies and children. If possible, get organic flannel crib sheets for your babies. Babies spent a large portion of their time on their beds and these crib sheets reduce the possibility of them being exposed to harmful chemicals and substances. In addition, crib sheets are smaller in sizes thus they do not cost as much as the larger queen or king flannel sheets.

Even though standard cotton flannel sheets offer users comfort and warmth, if you want to go natural and price is not an issue, organic flannel sheets may just be the excellent and most perfect option for the winter season.

Curtain Ideas to Suit Your Needs

GuestPoster — Sun, 18 Jul 2010 05:23:03 +0000

One of the easiest ways to spice up the look of a room is to add or to change your existing window curtains. Curtains are used to make your windows and house look attractive. Creative curtain ideas abound, but before you choose the design you want to use on your windows there are a few factors you need to consider so that you get the most out of your choice. The first thing you will have to look at is the fabric. There are different types of fabric that curtains are made from and you should choose one carefully so that it coordinates with your furniture and so that it suits the purpose you are hanging curtains for be it for a decorative purpose, for privacy or to block out light. Make sure you choose a strong fabric so that it can serve you for a long time. Light fabrics are more decorative while heavy fabrics do a better job providing privacy and blocking out light.

Another thing you should look at is the color of the curtain. Make sure you choose a color that will blend in well with your room décor so that your curtains jive with the overall look. While you won’t want to put lime green curtains in a sophisticated and toned down room, they’ll be perfect in a livelier and more vibrant setting. There are also different shades of the same color and therefore you should choose the shade the accentuates your furnishings. You should also make sure that the curtains are of the appropriate size so that they can do the job they are intended to do. For decorative purposes you may want to choose short curtains or even just valances but these types will not provide privacy or diminish early morning light if that is what you are trying to accomplish.

Some of the curtains design ideas that you can use for you home are: straight curtains which are plain curtains that can work for all situations. You can also use curtains that are tied back with interesting ties that accentuate the look. Some ideas are silk scarves or decorative ropes. These ties can either be at the top or at the bottom of the curtain. You can also use ties that drape around the floor for full length curtains. If you just want to spice up the look of your current curtains you can add curtain finials to the end of the curtain rod. Curtain finials are decorative pieces that attach to each end of the curtain rod. They are available in many different shapes and designs and can add a very unique element to any curtains.

There are endless curtain design ideas out there. Take the time to find the one that will turn your curtains into masterpieces!

Curtain Panels are Versatile Window Treatment Options

GuestPoster — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 07:41:05 +0000

Using curtain panels for window treatments allows for many different options. Products come in many different fabrics and weights. You can choose insulated protects to help block the sun. Using these items in the winter also helps keep heat in. This helps keep energy costs under control.

Sheer drapery sections can be used to enhance an accent color in a room’s decor. They can be used under other draperies or over them. Of all products available, these are the most versatile. They can be used with a window scarf on top, in either a contrasting or coordinating color. The work well under highly decorative valances that are scalloped or rounded. They can also be used to fill in the space between two wider or heavier drapes, to allow some light into a room.

Some curtain panels come as separate pieces, so you must purchase two. Others come in pairs, so you do not have to hunt for another piece. There are sets that include both drapes, ties and a valance. These ready made curtains make hanging window treatments much simpler. They are ideal for smaller windows or for a child’s room, where decorating options do not need to be as sophisticated in style.

Today there are double rods that are connected to a single end bracket. You can layer colors or a print and a solid, with such a device. You may choose to hang drapes with a coordinating valance on the outer rod. Regardless of how you configure your single draperies, there are many products available to help create the look you want. With so many options, you can get highly creative in putting together the drapery panels you want.

There are linen drapery items with a textured design, which helps liven up a window area and adds some interest to the room. Lace drapery items in a solid color can help bring out a shade that is less obvious in print draperies.

Lace adds a touch of classic styling and works well with a country French decor.

Because there are so many options, there are many different price ranges. Nearly anyone who wants to hang draperies can find something attractive or stylish. Bed and bath stores, retailers and discount stores all carry plenty of selections. Single pieces can be purchased for under $10 each. Sets with at least the two main sections can often be found for under $15. Newer fabrics used in these items include microfiber, which is lightweight but helps keep a room warm.

Croscill Curtains For Stunning Home Decor

GuestPoster — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 12:06:02 +0000

When it comes to the creme of the crop, Croscill curtains are a prime example. Croscill is a premium interior and home decoration company that specializes in bedding, curtains, drapes and accessories. It is a renowned company, formed in 1945, and has grown into a major force in the home textile industry. Croscill bedding is often said to be the best in its class. Croscill is credited for being the first producer of the decorative comforter. They also invented smocked curtains.

One of the most important features in completing the way a room looks is to choose the right drapes for the windows. Croscill drapes are well measured and tailored. It is often seen that after fully furnishing a room, people tend to pay less attention to the material of the drapes. The fabrics used in making these drapes are of the highest quality. They are pretty thick and generally, they are able to keep out the outside lights, which may otherwise compromise the privacy of a room. The drapes are made of materials especially designed to keep out the heat from the sun, the drapes thus help in keeping the room cool. However, in certain cases, customers might want drapes which allow light through them. Such curtains are also available in the market; the colors used in these curtains are of lighter shades.

Shower curtains are one of the many products that Croscill offers. Shower curtains are required to keep the water from spreading to other areas of the bathroom floor and they make the bathroom appear well maintained. Croscill shower curtains are made of pure polyesters; the products are highly reliable and have longevity. The curtains are extremely convenient to use and can be machine washed, thus they have a pretty low maintenance cost. The curtains come in all designs and colors, and can be customized to suit the color coding of a bathroom. If the paint of the bathroom walls needs to be changed, a differently colored curtain may help obtain a completely different look. Tiled floors may require printed and patterned curtains that complete the overall look, the company offers a wide range of such printed curtains.

Bedding accessories are paid attention to and there are products which are so well sewn and finished that they give the illusion of alligator skin. These designs are less vivid than other similar animal prints available in the market and yet they retain a cool sense of fashion. Often whole ensembles are provided, including matching Croscill bedroom curtains, which add the necessary elegance and charm to a dull bedroom. The ultimate look is extremely contemporary and yet has a classic dimension to it.

When it comes to revitalizing your home with top quality textiles, a Croscill curtain set or new bedding is simply the way to go.

Elegance In A Valance

Maya Tan — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 17:43:54 +0000

Windows are essential to a bright, welcoming, and beautiful home. Just as essential are the window treatments that you decorate them with. Between shutters, blinds, shades, and curtains, there is so much you can do to bring your living space to life. A very elegant choice is the window valance. Window valances were originally popular in Victorian interior design, and introduce a beautiful period look to your windows.

A valance curtain is a fabric that covers the uppermost part of the window. In addition to style, it does a beautiful job at covering drapery hardware. So whatever bars, poles, bolts, screws, or hooks you have running above your windows can be totally concealed. With style, and with elegance. Another great thing about valance curtains is that they can be hung alone, or paired with other treatments like blinds or curtains.

There are a number of popular valance treatments. The slight differences in design alter the style of your room. Individual taste will also carry great weight in choosing one design over another.

Scarf Valance (or Swag)
This valance is a very simple design, where the fabric hangs on brackets, draping horizontally over the top of the window. Its tails hang down on each side. Great in any room, with almost any fabric.

Balloon Valance
True to its name, these have a fuller appearance, with the lightweight fabric (cotton, sheers) ballooning outward. Since light fabrics are best, even necessary, here, you might consider this design as a kitchen valance or in a sunny breakfast room.

Ascot Valance
With the ascot, triangular shapes hang over curtains or drapes that are already in place. These curtain valances are most often from heavy materials like velvet and silk. Tassles or fringe are common as well. Definitely suitable in a living or dining room.

Italian Valance
This design drapes similarly to a valance scarf, yet this treatment forms a curve with the shortest width at the center. If you have a nice patio or greenery view from the window, a blue valance Italian style would frame it delightfully.

A valance is an elegant and highly decorative choice. Choosing the fabric and design that best suits your style and taste should be enjoyable. Even more than that, the ultimate product should be enjoyable. Shop around online, visit your local home decorating stores. Get a sense for what you like. Hopefully, you will take pleasure in the valances for years to come…both you and your guests!

Croscill Brings You Home Fashion Highs

Linda Harris — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 17:28:15 +0000

If you are looking for high standard home fashion and design products, you have probably already realized that while there are a plethora of designers to choose from, a few names come up again and again. Over fifty years ago, the Croscill valance design took window treatments to a new level of style and quality. Since then, Croscill Home has been a leader in innovative and fresh home fashion. Between their bed, bath, and window ideas, you will be sure to find something that you like.

Top of the line, and beautiful to boot, Croscill bedding includes numerous styles, patterns, and textures to choose from. Their “alligator” collections are textured by intricate sewing techniques and pound with character. Their Blanca collection contains the standard florals and pastels, with ultimate comfort and wide selection. Look to other Croscill Bed collections to allow you to choose from elegant, whimsical embellishments and dramatic wilderness scenes.

The delicate accents in your bathroom, at the Jacuzzi, or in the home sauna are guaranteed to make the difference between simple and “drab” to true high class. Croscill bath offers you everything from toothbrush holders to soap dispensers to towels and shower curtains. You can buy sets that match perfectly, or create your own accents with a personal creative touch. From sophistication to elegance to urban to natural and organic, the designer in you might lose herself entirely. But in the ultimate choice, your personality can speak out.

That original valance design over five decades ago made the Croscill curtain fairly famous. Over the years, Croscill curtains continue that name to fame. The curtains and window treatments are this company’s greatest achievement. The selection, quality, and design, will make you and your home feel like royalty. Beads, heavy curtains, sheer shades, and valances…there is no shortage. If you like extensive, intricate detail, look to their Carlisle. For organic patterns, discover Belmont. Delancey curtains are designed specifically for casual living environments. The real question is where to begin.

Of course, you can also bring many of the Croscrill accessories into other rooms of your house. A contemporary soap dispenser or Kleenex container might jazz up your kitchen counter. That funky Croscill pillow might work wonders to liven up the living room recliner. Let the company’s quality and design bring your home design to new heights.

The last word of advice: if you know what you’re looking for in Croscill collections, try to buy online at eBay and Amazon. You’ll have access to incredible discounts. And if you can make a great deal on great quality…well, that’s what we call value.

Versatility In Sheer Curtains

Maya Tan — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 17:12:29 +0000

Selecting the optimal window treatments for your home can be a very fun and creative part of your interior decorating expedition. There are a number of tasteful ways to welcome sunlight into your home while simultaneously providing privacy for you and your family when that is important. One way to create that versatility is with sheer curtains.

A sheer curtain allows sunlight to softly blanket your room while still shadowing your home from outside onlookers. There certainly are different levels of transparency in a sheer window curtain, however. The “heavier” the curtain sheer, the duller the sunlight and the higher guarantee of privacy. The lighter the sheer, the brighter the light and the less privacy. Virtually no curtain sheers are sufficient at night when the room is lit artificially. As the sun sets and moon rises, you will probably want to have heavier curtains to pull over windows that face the public.

No matter what complaint a person might have about sheer window curtains, however, it is never about looks. Sheer curtains are always pretty. They are always elegant. You can use them in almost any room feeling secure that your windows will look great. The maker/breaker in style really comes about when it’s time to choose what kind of sheer curtain panels will complement your décor best. So, again, sheers will look good. The question: what sheers will look best?

The simplest and most common choice, of course, is white sheer curtains. White won’t clash with your furniture, light will filter through it prettily, and if you need heavier curtains for added privacy, your options will not be greatly restricted. Other to consider, however, might add more life to your décor. Yellow or blue sheers with complementing valances or pullover curtains can be quite charming. Or perhaps you will appreciate a light color with a delicate, opaque pattern. The light and shadow effect is enchanting. It has more character, as well.

On some doors and windows, you can hang the French sheer voile curtains. The sheer curtain panel is secured by a rod at top and bottom. That means that when the door or window hinges open and closed, you will not have to worry about delicate fabric getting caught. They have a homey and permanent appearance to them; both attractive and practical.

That brings us to the final word on sheers: the fabric is delicate. Make sure that you buy high quality material that will withstand use and exposure to sunlight. If those elegant sheer panel curtains get worn thin too quickly, you will be highly disappointed.