 More and more people are choosing to purchase their fabrics from online stores rather than traditional brick-and-mortar shops. This shift is largely due to the convenience, variety, and accessibility that online shopping offers. However, finding the perfect fabric for a project can sometimes be a time-consuming process, as there are countless options available. Fortunately, most online fabric stores provide advanced search filters that make the selection process much easier. Customers can refine their search based on various criteria, such as color, pattern or design, fabric type, stretchability (whether the fabric is elastic or non-stretchable), thickness, and texture. Additionally, one of the most important filters is the price range, allowing buyers to find fabrics that fit their budget. These search tools help streamline the browsing experience, making it more efficient and enjoyable for customers looking for specific materials for their sewing or crafting projects. Designs, Prints, and Motifs: Understanding Fabric Patterns One of the most important filters when selecting fabric is its design. In the past, fabrics were often categorized simply as "plain" or "non-plain." However, today, there is a vast array of patterns, prints, and motifs available, making it easier to find a fabric that perfectly suits your project. Many fabric designs are straightforward and instantly recognizable—hearts, polka dots, diamonds, florals, and stripes are classic patterns that most people can easily identify. These designs are widely used in clothing, home decor, and crafts, making them timeless and versatile choices. However, other design names may not be as immediately clear. What exactly do terms like chains, ornaments, garland, or chevron refer to? With so many different names for patterns, it can sometimes be confusing to determine what a particular design looks like. To make things easier for you, we have compiled a helpful list of commonly used fabric design terms along with their descriptions. Having Trouble Finding the Right Design? No Worries! If you're struggling to find the exact pattern you're looking for, don’t panic! We’ve put together a comprehensive overview to guide you through the different design categories. Whether you're searching for a classic, trendy, or unique print, this list will help you navigate the vast selection of fabric designs available online. Fabric designs  Paisley Paisley: A Timeless and Ornamental Print Paisley is a decorative print characterized by its signature teardrop-shaped motif, which is rounded at the top and tapers towards the bottom. This intricate and flowing design has a rich history and is often associated with traditional, vintage, and bohemian styles. While the core shape remains consistent, paisley patterns can vary widely in size, arrangement, and complexity, making them a versatile choice for different fabrics and fashion trends. Paisley prints come in a vast range of colors, orientations, and detailing, allowing for both bold and subtle variations. Depending on the type of fabric—whether cotton, jacquard, tweed, or jersey—the placement and alignment of the design can influence the final look of the material. However, due to the organic and free-flowing nature of paisley, the thread direction is often less critical compared to more structured patterns. A Note on Categorization The paisley design is sometimes grouped under different style filters, such as "retro" or "ornamental" prints. If you are searching for paisley fabric online, it may be helpful to check these categories as well to find the perfect match for your project.  Ornaments Ornament Prints: Elegant and Decorative Patterns The term ornament originates from the Latin words ornare (to decorate) and ornamentum (adornment). In design, an ornament refers to a decorative composition or a collection of embellishments used to enhance objects, architecture, or textiles. These intricate patterns can be seen in architectural details such as swirling motifs on buildings, arches, circular elements, and the elaborate aesthetics of the Baroque style. When applied to fabrics, ornament prints are characterized by their symmetrical, flowing, and highly stylized designs, often featuring repeated patterns that create a sense of elegance and refinement. Unlike paisley prints, which have a more free-flowing and organic appearance, ornamental designs typically have a clear top and bottom or a distinct direction, making fabric orientation an important consideration when cutting and sewing. Influences and Common Motifs Ornament prints often draw inspiration from historical and artistic elements, such as:
Ornamental fabric designs are commonly used in luxurious textiles, home décor, upholstery, and formal fashion, adding a sophisticated and classical touch to various applications.  Herringbone Herringbone: A Classic and Structured Pattern Herringbone is a distinctive design characterized by rows of stripes arranged in a V-shape, with each stripe meeting at an angle of approximately 30 degrees. This pattern creates a striking, textured appearance that adds depth and movement to fabric. The name herringbone comes from its resemblance to the skeleton of a herring fish. Origins and Fabric Types Herringbone is most commonly associated with tweed fabrics, where it was originally created using a specific weaving technique. Traditionally, herringbone tweed is made from wool and is often used for coats, blazers, and classic menswear. However, the pattern is not exclusive to tweed—it can also be found in jersey, cotton, denim, and even printed textiles. Thread Direction and Sewing Considerations When working with herringbone fabric, it’s important to pay close attention to the thread direction, especially if you are cutting fabric for a sewing pattern. Since the pattern has a clear visual direction, misalignment can disrupt the symmetry and overall aesthetic of the design. Careful placement ensures that the distinctive V-shapes remain consistent throughout the garment or project. Herringbone vs. Chevron: Understanding the Difference Herringbone is sometimes confused with chevron or zigzag patterns. While both designs feature V-shaped formations, there is a key difference:
In Dutch, herringbone is known as visgraat, a term also used for the popular herringbone parquet flooring style.  Pied-de-Poule, Houndstooth & Vichy Pied de Poule & Vichy Checks: Timeless Two-Tone Patterns Pied de Poule (Houndstooth): A Classic Geometric Pattern The French term pied de poule translates to chicken legs, a reference to the abstract, jagged shapes that define this pattern. Also known as houndstooth or dogtooth, this design consists of broken squares with pointed edges, creating a visually striking and symmetrical geometric effect. Traditionally, houndstooth is most commonly seen in black and white, but it also appears in a wide variety of color combinations while always maintaining its signature two-tone look. Houndstooth is widely used across different fabric types, including wool, cotton, and jersey. It is particularly popular in woven wool fabrics, often found in classic outerwear, tailored suits, and elegant skirts. The design is instantly recognizable and remains a staple in both menswear and womenswear. A Special Connection to Chef’s and Baker’s Fabrics Though primarily associated with fashion and textiles, houndstooth occasionally appears in professional workwear. In rare cases, it is categorized as chef's or baker’s fabric because traditional chef’s trousers are often made in this black-and-white pattern. The purpose behind this choice is both practical and aesthetic: the busy pattern helps disguise stains while maintaining a professional and timeless look in the kitchen. Vichy Checks: A Versatile Two-Tone Square Pattern Vichy checks, also known as gingham, is another two-tone pattern, but unlike houndstooth, it consists of simple, evenly spaced squares. This design is highly recognizable and has been a favorite in fashion and home textiles for decades. One of the key advantages of Vichy checks is their practicality for tailoring and custom sewing. Because the squares are uniform in size, they serve as a visual guide for cutting and adjusting patterns. Many sewing guides include instructions on how to use the checkered pattern to ensure precise sizing and symmetrical cuts, making it ideal for those who enjoy DIY tailoring. Vichy checks are predominantly found in cotton and soft chambray fabrics, giving them a lightweight and breathable quality perfect for dresses, shirts, and summer wear. The pattern is often associated with a fresh, casual, and vintage-inspired aesthetic, making it a favorite for picnic dresses, tablecloths, and classic shirts.  Animal Motifs vs. Animal Fur: Understanding the Difference in Fabric Designs When it comes to fabric designs inspired by animals, there is a clear distinction between animal motifs and animal fur patterns. Though both are influenced by the animal kingdom, they serve different stylistic purposes and are categorized separately in textile design. Animal Fur: The Classic Wildlife-Inspired Print Animal fur refers specifically to patterns that mimic the natural markings of an animal’s coat, skin, or hide. This includes iconic prints such as:
These prints are widely used in various types of textiles, from faux fur and real fur to printed fabrics such as cotton, velvet, and jersey. While natural tones (brown, beige, black, white) are common, many fashion and interior designers also experiment with bold, unnatural colors like pink, blue, and neon shades to give animal fur patterns a modern twist. Related Categories: Camouflage, Safari & Army Prints Sometimes, animal fur patterns are grouped under broader categories such as camouflage, safari, or army prints. This is because these designs are also inspired by nature, wildlife, and the natural blending techniques of animals in their environments. Camouflage patterns, for example, take cues from the natural textures of animal fur and surroundings, often featuring earth tones and abstract shapes to create a seamless blend.  Garland Garland: A Versatile and Decorative Fabric Design The term garland is used in multiple ways when referring to fabric designs. It generally describes patterns that feature flowing, decorative arrangements, often associated with floral elements, vintage aesthetics, or festive themes. Because of its broad meaning, garland fabrics can fit into different style categories, depending on their design and purpose. 1. Floral Garlands: Classic and Elegant Patterns In its most traditional sense, garland simply refers to fabric designs featuring flower garlands—intertwining floral arrangements that create a delicate and decorative look. These prints often include roses, daisies, or other small blossoms, arranged in curved or circular formations. Fabrics with floral garland designs are widely used in romantic dresses, blouses, upholstery, and home décor, giving a fresh and elegant feel. 2. Vintage-Style Garland Designs The word garland is also associated with vintage-inspired patterns, particularly those that depict flowers in soft, muted colors with a nostalgic, romantic ambiance. These designs are reminiscent of Victorian wallpapers, old-fashioned tablecloths, and antique-inspired fashion fabrics. The delicate balance of faded florals and elegant swirls makes these fabrics ideal for retro fashion, shabby chic interiors, and vintage accessories. 3. Christmas and Festive Garlands Another common association with the word garland is Christmas and holiday fabrics. During the holiday season, garlands made of evergreen branches, holly, poinsettias, ribbons, and twinkling lights are often used for decoration. As a result, many Christmas-themed fabrics incorporate these elements, making garland a recognizable term in holiday textile designs. These fabrics are frequently used for table linens, festive clothing, gift wrapping, and seasonal decorations. Garland: A Broad and Multifaceted Design Concept Because garland can refer to multiple design styles, it is often categorized under floral, vintage, or Christmas fabrics. Whether used in soft, romantic patterns, classic floral arrangements, or festive holiday themes, the garland design remains a timeless and decorative element in textile art.  Geometric: Bold and Structured Patterns Geometric designs are based on basic shapes like circles, triangles, squares, and hexagons. These patterns are symmetrical and often multicolored, creating a strong, structured look. Some geometric fabrics feature a 3D effect, giving the impression of depth or movement. Key Features
Uses Geometric prints are common in fashion (dresses, shirts, scarves) and home décor (pillows, rugs, curtains), adding a modern, dynamic touch to any design.  Retro: A Bold and Vibrant Style Retro designs often evoke the 1960s and 1970s, characterized by bright, bold colors like orange, green, brown, pink, and yellow. These patterns are known for their rounded shapes, psychedelic swirls, and imaginative motifs. Text in retro designs is usually convex, open, and often outlined for added visual appeal. Modern Retro Retro designs can be adapted to today’s fashion by combining classic shapes with modern colors or using traditional vibrant hues with a contemporary twist. For example, combining flower power colors with modern design elements or pairing retro patterns with dark blue can create a stylish and fresh look. Batik and Retro In some cases, Batik is considered a retro design. Batik fabrics are dyed with round shapes and colors that seamlessly blend into one another, evoking a nostalgic, artistic feel from the past. Retro designs are perfect for summery cotton fabrics, bringing cheerfulness and vibrant energy to both modern and vintage-inspired styles.  Vintage: Soft, Nostalgic, and Timeless Designs Vintage fabric designs are known for their pale, muted colors that give them an aged, fragile appearance. These designs often feature beautiful floral motifs, old photographs, or soft, faded color combinations that evoke a sense of nostalgia. Vintage patterns are commonly found on canvas or gobelin fabrics and are cherished for their timeless beauty that never goes out of style. Nature-Inspired Vintage The nature theme is frequently found in vintage designs, with fabrics showcasing botanical illustrations of flowers, leaves, birds, gardens, and animals. The colors in these patterns are always subtle and soft, avoiding any harsh or vibrant tones, which further enhances their delicate, vintage charm. Vintage fabrics are perfect for creating classic, elegant pieces with a timeless appeal. SUMMARIZED: Fabric designs are an essential element of textile art, offering endless possibilities for creativity, style, and expression. Whether you are drawn to the bold and structured patterns of geometric designs, the timeless elegance of vintage prints, or the vibrant energy of retro designs, each pattern brings its own unique charm and character to fabrics. From the intricate paisley and ornamental motifs to the organic flow of garland and nature-inspired designs, the variety of options is limitless. Each fabric design tells a story, whether it’s evoking nostalgia, bringing cheerfulness to summery cottons, or adding sophistication to interior décor. Understanding the symbolism, colors, and shapes behind fabric patterns can help you choose the perfect material for any project, whether for fashion, home décor, or personal expression. No matter the trend or style, fabric designs have a timeless quality that continues to inspire and captivate. They help transform everyday items into works of art, adding depth, character, and beauty to our lives. Comments are closed.
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All about creating your own Chanel-Style jacket, Chanel-lovers information, Historic Costumes, Couture & Sewing book reviews and tutorials.
By: Marga van der Vet,
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