15 Patterns You Should Know
Find examples and info on the differences between popular patterns.
Design: Robin Henry
Sometimes the biggest challenge when searching for the perfect pattern is finding the right word to describe it. “You know, that zigzag-lined pattern, what’s that called?” (Hint: the answer is chevron.) The what-pattern-is-this-game ends here. To help you out, we’ve gathered and defined 15 of the most common home decor patterns.
Some are more common than others, such as stripes and polka dots, but we also show examples of trending patterns, such as chevron and ikat, and explain the differences between similar patterns, such as plaid and argyle. Patterns are expanding to all things home related, from area rugs to dinnerware; we are seeing them on all types of items. See examples of each each pattern below along with ideas from our editors.
Medford Stripe Cotton Throw Pillow
1
STRIPES
This pattern is easily recognizable, and you probably see it on a daily basis. Stripes are parallel bands or lines on a contrasting background.
But, stripes can come in all different line-weights and colours. For example, pinstripes are very thin stripes that are reminiscent of men's suits from the early 19th century. Keep an eye out for these in bedding and area rugs.
2
CHEVRON
Chevron is a V-shaped pattern in rows. Some refer to this pattern as the zigzag.
It's shown primarily with two colours, but not always. The more popular this pattern gets, the more we see colours added, like this colourful chevron pillow.
https://www.wayfair.ca/decor-pillows/pdp/brayden-studio-espinal-zigzag-cotton-throw-pillow-brsd5625.html
Espinal Zigzag Cotton Throw Pillow
https://www.wayfair.ca/decor-pillows/pdp/the-pillow-collection-baraka-ikat-throw-pillow-pico6684.html
Baraka Ikat Throw Pillow
##
3
IKAT
You say "i-kat," I say "e-kat." Since this is often pronounced incorrectly, the phonetic spelling of ikat is "ee-kaht."
Ikat is a woven pattern from Indonesia that can vary widely. Its signature intricate design is often created by tie-dyeing.
Design: Taylor Yang, Inc.
##
4SCALES
A scale design features overlapping arcs. This pattern is also sometimes called clamshells.
This pattern can easily be remembered by thinking of scales on a fish; it's also often used in Victorian architecture.
https://www.wayfair.ca/decor-pillows/pdp/nectarmodern-woodblock-scales-arches-graphic-throw-pillow-nect1021.html
Woodblock Scales Arches Graphic Throw Pillow
https://www.wayfair.ca/decor-pillows/pdp/the-pillow-collection-ceres-houndstooth-cotton-throw-pillow-cover-tplc1700.html
Ceres Houndstooth Cotton Throw Pillow Cover
##
6
HOUNDSTOOTH
Houndstooth is a two-tone pattern characterized by broken checks. The abstract four-pointed shapes resemble a dog's tooth, hence the name.
This is trendy in the fashion world, and is often translated to home decor. It's most commonly seen in black and white.
5 GEOMETRIC
Geometric is a broad category that includes all patterns depicting graphic shapes. This means patterns that are not organic, abstract, floral, or natural are usually geometric.
Below, Susie Herr makes a statement with four-toned geometric wallpaper in an eclectic nursery. Some geometric patterns can create3-D illusions.
Design: Susie Herr
https://www.wayfair.ca/decor-pillows/pdp/andover-mills-ansonia-throw-pillow-chlh2419.html
Mccrudden Throw Pillow
##
7
DAMASK
Damask resembles scrolls, or abstract leaves. Commonly featured within the design are flowers, fruits, and other designs.
The most modern take on this design is a woven, repeating pattern that typically features very ornate, curvy motifs.
8 PLAID
Plaid is a checkered, tartan pattern of different colours woven in a cross-barred style. Not to be confused with gingham, which only features two colours.
Plaid typically comes out in the fall and winter. We see this regularly in the hipster fashion world, but plaid is a classic choice for a range of home items from bedding to kitchenware.
Litton Cotton Throw Pillow
##
9
FLORAL
A floral pattern describes any print that is decorated with flowers, including abstract representations.
Bring your floral patterns out at the start of spring and through the summer.
Design: Chango & Co
##
10
QUATREFOIL
Quatrefoil means "four leaves" and is a medieval geometric pattern that features a four-lobed, clover leaf-like pattern.
Veranda Geometric Indoor/Outdoor Throw Pillow
##
11
TRELLIS
A trellis is an architectural structure made from intertwining wood work. Often times seen in a garden, or over an open patio.
The trellis pattern has evolved from this structure into the home, mimicking the interwoven frame on fabric.
12 ANIMAL PRINT
Animal print is a fairly self-explanatory category of patterns that most commonly includes exotic animals, such a zebra, leopard, and cheetah.
Animal patterns are typically a realistic interpretation of the animals coat, however they sometimes come in bright, vivid colours for a statement look.
Garima Dhawan Indoor/Outdoor Throw Pillow
##
13
POLKA DOTS
Polka dots are a sprinkling of filled circles, generally equally sized and spaced close together.
They can be in a grid format or more spaced out and free form.
14 ARGYLE
Argyle is a pattern of interlocking diamonds in solid and outline shapes. It's often a knitted pattern on a single background colour.
Keep an eye out for argyle during the holiday season, especially on sweaters.
Crazy Rosewood Lumbar Pillow
##
15
PAISLEY
Paisley is a cluster of droplet-like shapes and leaves in an organic, intricate design. This pattern has Persian and Indian origins.
This classic pattern has been a go-to choice for many fabrics over the years, and remains a timeless choice for everything from bedding to wallpaper.
