How to Use Tapestry in Small Rooms
Small rooms can sometimes be a challenge to decorate. You want the room to look bigger, not cramped and be inviting and warm. Storage bins and shelves help with clutter, but where does that leave decor?
There are a ton of tricks out there that can help to make a room feel so much bigger than it is. Paint color, window treatments, fabric choices and strategic furniture are all great. Adding tapestry to a small room might not be the first thing you think of when wanting to make a small room appear larger, but consider adding it to your idea box. After all, it’s basically works of art in soft fabric.
We’ve got some ideas on how to use tapestry for your home. From bold colors to a neutral vibe, the options to find something that suits your style and taste are totally attainable. Read on for where to use this hanging fabric, it might be the one piece that makes all the difference.
What is Tapestry?
Tapestry has been around since the early Middle Ages when it was used for bed chambers. They were made of pliable fiber, rolled up, easily framed and hung on walls. Since they were used in bedrooms initially, creating a space that is warm and comfortable is kind of a given.
The process was complicated and took some time, commonly woven by hand by a loom. They were made by repeatedly weaving the weft (horizontal threads) over and under the warp (vertical threads), then squishing (tamping) the horizontal threads down making them very close together, hiding the vertical threads from being visible. It was then woven in natural warp thread like linen, wool or cotton.
This is why tapestry is so unique when it comes to home decor. It combines the color and beauty of traditional wall art with the texture and warmth of an area rug. For decor purposes, it’s a win/win.
Because the art created on the fabric has a way of telling a story, it’s easy to see why tapestry can set a tone for a specific room or your entire home. With a variety of images to choose from whether it be images of natural landscapes, historical time periods, religious themes, romantic settings, or art from all over the world, the options are endless.
How to Use Tapestry
So now that we know how the tapestry is made and how it resembles beautiful works of art, the next question is how to use it to make a small room look bigger? If bold colors and prints are traditional, won’t it make the space look smaller? Not necessarily. Here are some ways to use tapestry strategically.
Makeshift Headboard
Have a headboard, but don’t like it? Don’t have a headboard and want to hang some art? Tapestry might be the answer. Hanging psychedelic or floor mandala tapestry on the wall behind your headboard is a popular choice.
Not only will it be the first thing people see when they walk into a bedroom, but it will also instantly give your room personality and set the tone. Bonus if your bedspread matches the tapestry colors to bring it all together.
Ceiling Decor
Hanging tapestry from the ceiling can hide nicks, scratched paint, or any worn-out spots, as well as give the room a beautifully chic design. Try hanging your favorite bohemian tapestry that matches your style and decor taste.
It’ll make the room look more spacious and big while adding an element of warmth and art to the room. Plus it’ll be something unique to look at when falling asleep!
Wallpaper
If painting a room sounds too permanent and peel ‘n’ stick wallpaper isn’t your thing, how about using tapestry fabric as giant wallpaper? It’s a very budget-friendly option for those wanting something like wallpaper, but without the investment of paint or drills.
Wallpapering with tapestry gives your walls a beautiful look that is high quality and thematic depending on your color choice and the overall theme. Choose one wall to add drama and choose pieces that will complement it in a more muted tone to bring everything together.
Use as Bedspread
If you don’t want to commit to anything being on the walls, use a beautiful tapestry as a bedspread. It’s a great way to showcase your style without sacrificing wall space.
The thinner material adds a layer of comfort and luxury (wall art on a bed) without being too heavy. Great for those hot summer months, if you live in a warmer climate, or if you tend to get hot at night.
Cushions and Pillows
Pillows, floor cushions and poofs add comfort and warmth to any room, not just the bedroom. They can instantly change the look of the space depending on fabric, colors and patterns. Try it in the living room for a cozy movie-watching experience.
For DIY’ers, experimenting with tapestry for pillows and cushions can be a very fun project. You can even make big floor cushions for pets and get them in on the action!
Tapestry in small rooms doesn’t seem to go together, but believe me when I say it can really up the “wow” factor. With so many options on colors, patterns and themes, you’re bound to find one that really speaks to your personality and personal style.
Choose one room or multiple rooms in your home to use tapestry as a decor accent piece. Whether on a wall or on a headboard, it’ll be one piece that can set the tone for your home.
