FABRICS 285

ELEMENTS OF ART IN FABRICS

Beauty of fabrics depends largely on their expressiveness, tex-
ture, color, and pattern.

Expressiveness. A single outstanding idea can be portrayed
in the texture, color, and pattern of a fabric. When'these three
elements fuse to give one impression, the effect is enhanced and
dramatized and a distinctive fabric is created. For example, the
utmost quaintness may be expressed in a calico with a prim little
nosegay pattern in faded rose, green, and white. See page 302 for
such a pattern. Dignity, delicacy, sophistication, or almost any
theme can be found in fabrics.

Texture. The most significant quality of a fabric is texture,
which determines its character more than any other element. Tex-
tiles are to be felt as well as seen. The modern trend is to em-
phasize textural variety in order to obtain interest and beauty
without employing pattern. See the glass fiber spread on page 302.

Color. Since fabrics often provide most of the color interest
in a room, subtle and beautiful colors should be sought in them.
One or two colors are more effective than a greater number.
Finely related colors in drapery, upholstery, and rugs are essential
for beauty.

Pattern. Decorative pattern is usually produced by weaving,
embroidery, or printing. Printed patterns should suit the textiles
on which they are stamped. Woven patterns that grow out of the
weaving process itself are in the main more distinctive than those
that are printed on finished fabrics. Textile designers create pat-
terns especially intended for execution in warp and weft. Some
of the most beautiful modern woven patterns have come from the
looms of Paul Rodier of France. Many one-tone fabrics exhibit
woven patterns of the same color as the background. Patterns
designed by famous designers are shown on page 299.

Stripes, checks, plaids, or dots are the safest patterns. Stylized
patterns and Modern geometric patterns are often desirable. Ferns
and other large foliage patterns are among the best designs. Floral
patterns are difficult to select as they are more often poor than
good, the naturalism and sentimentalism of Victorian times still
persisting in them. Excellent period patterns, based on the original
designs, are often available for period rooms.