Decorating With Color - Finding Inspiration

Today I'd like to begin a new series that focuses on how to decorate using fabric color trends. There are so many bright, beautiful color combinations available and choosing the right one for the right project can be intimidating.

One of the great features about using color today, is that there are virtually no rules. Thanks to the advances in technology, we are free to discover color combinations from around the globe. We can take color inspiration from cultures all over the world and adapt them to accommodate our own style and personality. From the sun drenched Italian countryside to the vibrant, rich colors of Morocco, you are limited only by your imagination.

The single best way to incorporate color into your decorating is to find inspiration. Whether it's a picture of a room from your favorite decorating magazine or a photo taken on a summer vacation, find inspiration that moves you. Colors are able to evoke emotion, so by incorporating them into your decor you can take yourself to any destination imaginable.

Take a look at these inspiration pictures taken from Sherwin Williams 2009 Forecast Influences. Can you see your room decor evolve from on of these breathtaking scenes?

Global Tapestry

Techno-color

Conscious Luxury
Local Momentum

So Excited!

I have been posting about the upcoming fabrics that will be coming into FabricFlair on Etsy and Fabric Flair on Artfire and I am really excited about them. Here's why. Until now I have been buying up fabric at clearance prices and reselling with not much profit. I have always had limited yardage of everything I carry.

But, my first 2 actual bolts arrived today! It has been the first tangible step (other than a credit card bill) toward moving to the next level. Thus far I have been kinda playing with different fabric types, seeing what sells and what doesn't, and overall just becoming educated about this whole wonderful textile world.

I received the first 2 bolts from Art Gallery Fabrics, the first 2 of many from them and several other fabric manufacturers. They are from the original Alhambra collection by Patricia Bravo, and I can't wait until October to get in the Alhambra II line! I haven't been able to find any names for these fabrics and it's making me nuts. I think Art Gallery must have only numbered them early on, and are naming the later collections.

AH - 123 on ETSY

AH - 123 on ArtFire

AH - 121 on ETSY

AH - 121 on ArtFire

Coming Soon to Fabric Flair Part 2

Okay, so yesterday I think I got a "lucky". The very nice lady from Studio E called me to let me know that some of my latest order had been backordered or discontinued completely. While I was on the phone, I decided to change several of my order items. Originally I was planning on carrying several patterns from the Deja Brew line, which is a cute, blue and brown, coffee themed collection. I really liked it and it put me in mind of a comfortable little coffee house.

However, the more I thought about it and literally tossed and turned thinking about it, I decided to try several patterns from their Natureology line instead. Thankfully, it wasn't too late and these great patterns will show up at Fabric Flair soon!

Studio E describes Natureology as "tranquil elements of nature".

Birds of a Feather in Brown

Blowing Leaves in Neutral

Birds in Brown

Through the Forest in Turquoise

Birds of a Feather in Rust

Blowing Leaves in Ivory

Birds in Gold

Through the Forest in Grey

Coming Soon to Fabric Flair

I am making the transition right now from buying cut pieces of fabric from suppliers, to buying straight from the manufacturer. It's a move that I have been hoping to make for some time, and decided that it's time to take the leap. My first shipment is expected any day now from Studio E. I fell especially in love with their Natureology and Essentials II in black and white. Here is a sample of what's to come at Fabric Flair:

Bold Floral in Black

Bold Floral in White

Iron Scroll in Black
Iron Scroll in White
Wire Rose in Black

I went a little crazy!

In order to make room for the new fabrics that are coming in, I have marked EVERYTHING down at FabricFlair.

Amy Butler, Joel Dewberry, Home Decor, Quilting Weight, it's ALL on sale!

Check it out while supplies last!

Summer Sale Down!

Fabric Flair is having a summer sale down. Tons of fabric just marked down.

Heavyweight, lightweight, quilter's cotton, upholstery fabric

Yardage is limited so don't miss out!

FABRIC FLAIR SUMMER SALE!

New Fabrics Just in!

I'm always so excited on the days that fabric arrives.  Ordering online when the photos are so-so always makes you a little unsure of what the fabric is truly going to be like.  Is it soft?  Is it strong?  Is it stiff?  I usually try to take detailed pictures of the fabrics that I know customers may not be familiar with.  I want them to see the same thing I get to.  

I have been stalking the Greenhouse Fabrics website, waiting to pounce on their sale fabrics.  Today I had these pretties delivered.

Robin's Egg Frame and Medallion

This fabric's features surprised me when I got my first sample of it a few weeks ago.  It has an absolutely beautiful weave.  It is strong and able to stand on it's own for great decor.  What a beautiful statement.

Cameo Jacquard  

This beautiful jacquard took me by surprise as well.  Sometimes an online picture just doesn't say enough.  It is a classic pattern, but in a softer, more contemporary color scheme.  So pretty!

Brick Chinoiserie

The intricate detailing of this patchwork fabric is fascinating.  It is warm, spicy, and definitely something I am going to keep in mind for fall.  It would make a gorgeous table runner or placemats!

ESST Weekend Shopping Extravaganza - Aug 1-2!

Fabric Flair is participating in the ESST Weekend Shopping Extravaganza August 1-2! Fabric prices so low, I'm practically giving them away. Better get them before they are gone!  

Fine Home Decor Fabrics at Blowout Prices!!!  

Joel Dewberry Ginseng Home Decor Fabrics 

and  

Amy Butler Nigella Decor Fabrics on sale! 

Be sure to check out the Official Team Esst Thread for great deals and sales this weekend!

Calling Out!

I would like to take a few moments and call attention to a few of my fellow ESST Member's shops.  I always go through their shops first when I am looking for something because I know they only carry the best!

Jennifer's Cozy Cottage

She has a great selection of papers for scrapbooking, cardmaking, paper project need.  I know first hand that her customer service is wonderful and I will definitely be returning.  Stop by and check out her Christmas in July sale while it lasts!

One of my personal favorite collections:

Amy Butler TEA BOX Collection

Artful Mosaic Supplies

You will find such a fascinating collection of items

 (list taken directly from shop announcement): 

Mosaic tiles, MDF bases, Ceramic, Stained glass, Glass gems, 

Grout, Other mosaic supplies

Here's a few that caught my fancy!

JOSH the FROG

ON YOUR TOES

Check out other amazing supply shops by going to the Team ESST Blog!

http://teamesst.blogspot.com/

Checking in and Checking up!

I have been working hard on discounting fabrics in FabricFlair this week.  Just about everything is on sale or closing out.  You couldn't get better deals on the fabrics that I have to offer you right now!

One thing I suffer from at this point in time, is that I have not accrued enough earnings to have the buying power that my competitors do, and therefore offer both quantity and selection.  I have to be choosy about what I bring into my shop.  I work very hard to scour the web looking for the best deals for both me and my customers.

I also want to always be able to provide the type of selection that helps crafters of any type find something they love.  There are fabrics listed at FabricFlair that are suitable for everything from baby blankets to upholstery....and everything in between!

So stop by and check out the sale...and tell a friend!