The Beloved Suzani

Beautiful embroidered fabrics known as Suzanis have been appearing all over great interiors and design blogs for quite some time now. Their bold patterns make a big statement in the design of a room while bringing a comfortable feel to any interior. As a suzani lover myself, I wanted to shed a little light onto this popular textile.

The name Suzani comes from the Persian word for “needle,” which is fitting given the way Suzanis are made. These beautiful textiles are carefully embroidered and are typically made with cotton and/or silk. Suzanis have been referenced as far back as the 15^th century and most likely originated in what is now known as Uzbekistan. Suzanis were typically given to a groom on his wedding day and were made by his future bride as part of her dowry and to highlight her skills.

Above photo, Kristen Hutchins Design

Sun and moon disks, stylized flowers such as tulips, carnations, and irises as well as leaves and vines, pomegranates, and occasionally fish or birds are common design motifs found on Suzanis. These patterns have become so popular that the traditionally embroidered design is now being printed on many home accessories.

Sultan Bedding by Z Gallerie and Suzani Wastepaper Baskets by Decorative Things

Two great designers who often use the power of Suzanis in their designs are Martyn Lawrence Bullard and Nathan Turner. Antique suzanis can frequently be found in the interiors of these two successful and talented designers, leaving us to ooh and awe over the interiors they create.

Above interiors by Martyn Lawrence Bullard. Interiors below by Nathan Turner.

When creating his own fabric line, Martyn Lawrence Bullard incorporated a lot of what we all love about suzanis and other ethnic fabrics into his designs giving us the perfect balance between traditional and modern aesthetic. Designers Joe Lucas and Parrish Chilcoat of Lucas Studio Inc. used Martyn's Sultan's Suzanni in one of their striking interiors seen to the right.

If you want to try to incorporate some ethnic flair into your interiors, try starting with a few pillows from Fabricadabra. These amazing pillows (some shown below) are made with real vintage suzani textiles so each one is unique. If you are feeling more bold, shop for a full piece of suzani so that you can display it on the wall or use it for upholstery like the pros. Try places like Fabricadabra or 1st dibs for full pieces or furniture already upholstered with a suzani.

Happy Suzani Shopping! Until next time,

Ellenor

Ikat, Ikat, Everywhere!

It seems that everywhere you turn these days you can spot an Ikat. This bold pattern has made its way to fashion, interiors, stationery, and almost every kind of design. But what do you know about this pattern that you love so much? Lets take a look into the history of Ikat...

The name Ikat (pronounced “ee-kaht”) comes from the Malay language meaning "tied" or "bound,” which is exactly how this pattern is made. Using a tie-dye process, the warp or weft threads (the direction that they will run) are tied into tight bundles and dyed before being woven together to create a pattern. A Double Ikat is when both the warp and the weft threads are tie-dyed before weaving. This beautiful textile is typically made with silk, but can be found using all sorts of fabrics today.

Pillows by Fabricadabra

Ikats have a very long history and are found all over the world. The designs vary depending on the region in which they are made, but are often considered symbols of status, wealth, power and prestige because of the time involved and high level of skill required to make them.

The term “Flame Stitch” is often used today in place of “Ikat.” It is my belief that the Flame Stitch pattern is just one variation of the many designs that the Ikat umbrella covers. This term usually describes the zig-zag pattern and is seen as the more simplified or modern versions of an Ikat. It also describes the pattern on the thick blanket that your grandmother probably has.

Interiors by Mary Mcdonald

Bedroom with Flame Stitch Bench from Elle Decor, "Bargello Pillow" from Jonathan Adler

As you can see, designers love to incorporate this gorgeous textile into their interiors. Just using a little bit can make a room pop, like the bedroom above or these purple Ikat chairs!

If you really want to make a statement, use Kelly Wearstler as your guide with how she used her own Ikat-inspired and Flame Stitch fabrics to create this amazing room.

On the other hand, Kristen Hutchins selected a more subtle Ikat pattern to use on this outdoor space to create a modern and serene aesthetic.

Today, the term Ikat can refer to the textile itself, the pattern, or technique used to make it. No matter how the term is used, you know that what you’re seeing is stunning!

Until next time!

Ellenor