By Kelly Rinik

Choosing a fabric can be as overwhelming as choosing a wedding gown! So many beautiful options and shops to choose from! I was recently trying to select fabric for my own Roman shade in my home and I was quickly overwhelmed. I'm normally pretty quick to make a purchase but this time, I found myself a bit of a fabric snob, being overly picky and I ordered a ton of samples of high end fabric (something I recently swore I wouldn't do!) I think working for a textile company has also made me more knowledgable about fabric and I can spot the difference between a nice fabric and a cheapo one. Also, my seemingly wealthy clientele have sent me some of the most gorgeous fabrics for their Roman shades over the past 2 years. 😀 So it's now safe to say I may be a bit of a textile snob when it comes to certain projects!

Here are some of the different types of prints that are very popular to help you narrow down your selection and decide which style your eye is most drawn to. Once you decide on which pattern you like most, you can then search for the colors you like in that particular pattern type. Often customers email me and say, "I don't know where to find fabric! Help!" It's as easy as using the search system called "THE GOOGLE." 😄 Simply type in "blue and grey geometric fabric" and you'll get a huge selection of online fabric stores pop up!

Ikat Print-very popular lately. looks like the colors are running. Tribal patterns. often very colorful.

Damask Print- often reversible. Usually two toned and has a swirly floral medallion pattern.

Paisley Fabric- nice color mixes. Traditional and feminine. One of my personal favorites.

Jacquard Fabric - usually has a texture to it. very classic and traditional. Can be very lavish.

Geometric Fabric- modern and contemporary. Circles, sharp lines, different shapes. Many color options.

Floral Fabric - Classic and traditional. Can also be modern or country, depending on colors etc.

Jacobean Fabric - one of my favorites!! Love the color variation and beauty of the branches and flowers.

Ticking Stripe- also very popular. Timeless and traditional. Can go with many colors and styles.

Polka Dot Fabric- great for kids rooms. Traditional and fun. Many colors offered.

Gingham Fabric- also very classic and traditional. Great for country style interiors.

Basketweave Fabric- often textured. A great solution if you want a solid but do not want it to be too boring and to add some interest.

Embroidered Fabric- another one of my favorites. Has a lot of intricate detail. Many times floral but also can be geometric and have other patterns. has a raised thread texture to it. Many times it is light weight and silky.