Country style checks
In a country style kitchen checks work really well and can be used as a curtain fabric or for blinds and cushions. You could also use them as curtains on your units instead of doors. As a contrast team with a striped fabric. These should be in the same colour palette and of a similar scale. For instance if you are using small checks then a narrow stripe fabric will work best.
Living Rooms
In living rooms what you choose will depend on your style and taste. For a contemporary scheme a striped fabric made into a roman blind will look very smart. If you prefer a more traditional look choose a tartan fabric in reds and greens, this will create a cosy feel to your room. Use for curtains and cushions, or perhaps as an upholstery fabric for a statement chair. Tartans or plaid fabrics can also be used in contemporary schemes and if you select them in hot pinks and turquoises you will be right on trend.
In bedrooms perhaps choose a subtle stripe fabric in a neutral colour palette, this will create a restful feel. You could use these stripes for curtains or blinds and for your bed linen.
Nautical schemes
A blue and white striped fabric is also a good choice when creating a nautical scheme and work really well in bathrooms when made into a roman or roller blind.
Scandinavian scheme
Stripes are also ideal if you want to create a Scandinavian feel to your room , especially if you choose red and white fabrics which will bring a 'folksy feel' to your scheme.
Accessories
When you have selected your checked fabric or stripe fabrics you will need to select your colours for the rest of the room. Pick out one of the colours to use for walls and flooring. Using a selection of different stripes and checked fabrics for a collection of cushions work well as long as you ensure that they are all from the same colour palette. Use one of these fabrics for your window treatment and then keep the rest of the scheme plain. Further accessories such as rugs, vases and lampshades should be kept plain to avoid the scheme looking too busy.
Checks and stripes come in a wide variety of colours, from natural narrow stripes, colourful bold designs and pretty pastels. There is bound to be something to suit your taste and style.
