What is ikat fabric?
Originating in regions like Indonesia, India, and Central Asia, ikat is a dyeing technique where yarns are tie-dyed before being woven into fabric. This results in the signature feathered or ‘bleeding’ motifs that give ikat its unmistakable look. A traditional ikat pattern often features geometric shapes, zigzags, and stylised florals, woven with pure craftsmanship.
What is ikat fabric used for today?
From home décor to fashion, it’s perfect for adding exotic flair and summer warmth to your creative projects. Let’s explore five inspiring ways to use ikat fabric in your home.
1. Tame the Wanderlust with Ikat Fabric Cushion Covers
If you’re looking to bring a taste of adventure to your interior, then a simple, stylish update with ikat cushion covers are a must. These vibrant accessories inject colour, culture, and personality into any room, and conjure up dreams of far-off lands.
Available in vivid shades and patterns, ikat cushion covers can be used to create contrast on neutral sofas or to complement a bohemian-inspired living space. For a more curated look, choose a mix of sizes with matching traditional ikat pattern elements. Not only do they elevate your interiors instantly, but they also bring a sense of storytelling and heritage into your home.
2. Make a Colourful Statement with Ikat Upholstery
If you’re up for a bold summer project, consider using ikat fabric for upholstering a chair, ottoman, or even headboard. It’s an excellent way to give vintage or tired furniture a second life with a colorful, upbeat style.
Because of its strong patterns and vibrant colors, ikat fabric works beautifully as an accent. Think statement armchairs in a reading nook or a feature headboard in a bedroom filled with natural textures. When people ask, “What is ikat fabric used for?” upholstery is one of the most obvious answers.
3. Add a Taste of the Exotic to Your Summer Dining
Using ikat fabric to create an outdoor tablescape will immediately put you in holiday mode. Use offcuts of ikat fabric to create table runners, napkins, or placemats and complement the scene with earthenware pottery, woven baskets, bamboo utensils and Morrocan-inspired lamps.
Ikat’s signature pattern and bold colour add drama and dimension to your table, transforming everyday dining into a more festive, global-inspired experience.
4. Be Dramatic with Ikat Curtains or Blinds
With its dense weave and structure, ikat fabric is ideal for making curtains and blinds. Because of its texture, ikat fabric provides privacy and helps to block out sunlight, ideal for keeping rooms cool during summer days.
The rich, traditional ikat patterns, often depicted in bright and bold colours, create a striking focal point that adds drama to any space. Ikat Roman blinds or roller blinds look striking against a plain wall, while you can complement ikat curtains with other interior trends for a coordinated, interior designed appeal.
Bring ikat fabric into your home!
This summer, take your home decor to new, exotic heights with ikat fabric. Embrace the bold prints and vibrant patterns of traditional ikat fabric or mix in contemporary styles - for help and guidance with your project, take a look at our convenient made-to-measure service.
