I love tartan! I love the colors, the patterns and if I could I would decorate my whole house with it. Instead I collect vintage tartan fabric and tartan blanket and the odd plate, cup, book, etc.
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| This wallpaper is fabulous! Image Scott Meacham Woods |
Jut in case you are wondering if there is a difference between tartan and plaids here is the definition from designer and owner of SMW Home, Scot Meacham Woods of the blog The Adventures of Tartanscot. By the way, if you like tartan as much as I do make sure to visit SMW Home for the most beautiful collection of fabric, furniture, wall coverings and even tartan carpet.
All tartans are plaid, but, not all plaids are tartan…All plaids and tartans are comprised of stripes (in varying sizes and colors) that meet at a 90-degree angle. We start heading into ‘tartan’ territory by looking at the geometry on the pattern. With most every tartan, the pattern on the stripes running vertically is exactly duplicated on the horizontal axis too. Basically, this matching pattern in both directions will create a grid. The warp and weft threads are then woven in a two-over-two “twill” pattern. When looking at a simple plaid, you’ll notice that the stripes — either in color, size, or pattern — are not the same in both directions. (Scot Meacham Wood, House Beautiful April 2014 HERE)
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| Image Scott Meacham Wood via Pinterest |
If you are looking for a few things to add to your own tartan collection here are a few throws I found that you might like. Personally I think tartan is classic and does with any style and decor.
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| A few of my tartan blankets |
I personally love the old Pendleton throws because they remind me of my grandparents.
Or perhaps you need a few pillows instead? Ralph Lauren always offer the classics like Blackwatch and Stewart plaid.
If not soft furnishings you could try something tartan for the kitchen, like a beautiful set of mugs to serve your holiday beverages in.
In addition to my tartan mugs I love to buy tartan salad plates and as I have said before mix and match them with piece I already own like my white plates, favorite transfer ware and whatever else suits my fancy. I think the plaid plate from Pottery Barn look great with a plain white plate, a charger and a cute reindeer! As for the antler napkin ring you can find something similar to that at Walmart!
Are you a tartan lover? Do you have any tartan pieces that you collect or do you have a favorite pattern? If so please share.
If you would like to see more of my favorite tartan pieces check out my Tartan Board on Pinterest or this post Tartan Parade.
Have a wonderful weekend.
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SO many wonderful choices Elizabeth. I am a huge fan of vintage Pendleton blankets too. They also remind me of my grandparents. I'm like you, I could decorate my entire home in tartan. I have loved it as long as I can remember. I used to love to dress my children in tartan too. Poor kids..ha! Happy Saturday to you. Thank you for such a fun read this morning. 🙂
What a pretty post! I love all the plaids and and rich colors. I just made a skirt using three different dark plaids. I saw it in a store for $189 and went to JoAnne Fabrics and copied it for $30. It will be great to wear with boots and sweaters this fall and winter.
Ah, so that's the difference!
Hm. I don't guess I have anything in either tartan or plaid right now.
Brenda
Yes, I absolutely adore tartan and thank you for so much inspiration. I especially love it at this time of the year!
Yes, yes, YES! I *love* tartan….and I love this post! I'm following you on Pinterest, and I love your tartan board! 😀
The Pier1 plates with the animals are adorable. I do love them! I would love a couple of vintage Pendleton throws for our sofa.
Super post!!!
xo,
RJ