Patriotic materials are specific because of their colors and patterns. Common colors are red, blue, and white, whereas common patterns are stars, stripes, and symbolic designs. But, the surprising fact is that these are versatile and give amazing results if used strategically.
Many people think that patriotic fabric is a standalone option, meaning combining it with other fabric patterns is impossible. But as already mentioned, strategic use of the material makes it easy to combine with other patterns and gives beautiful results.
What are the basics of pattern mixing?
When mixing different fabric patterns, there is a 60-30-10 rule. 60, 30, and 10 stand for dominant, secondary, and accent patterns, respectively. Other than this, there is a unified color scheme that ties the patterns and keeps them together.
Another basic rule to combine patriotic fabric with others is choosing the complementary options of the former. The patterns and colors should not compete with the patriotic material.
What are the common patterns to combine with patriotic fabric?
● Polka dots
● Flower and other floral patterns
● Checks and plaids
● Solids and textures
Usually, the patriotic designs are large and bold. Combining them with small polka dots gives a proper design balance. It’s said that small polka dots soften the bold designs in the patriotic material.
The impression of the patriotic pattern is very strong. To balance this strong nature and add elegance in the final product, combining patriotic material with floral patterns is a great idea.
The combination of checks and plaids with patriotic material gives a rustic look. You might find various check and plaid patterns in the market.
Lastly, the busy prints of the patriotic fabric can only be balanced by mixing it with solids. Textured fabric patterns are also recommended to balance the complicated prints of the patriotic theme.
Mistakes to avoid when mixing patriotic fabric with other fabric patterns
Using many busy patterns
The patriotic patterns are super busy; sometimes, they even look complex. So, make sure you don’t choose similar patterns. Too many busy patterns will spoil the overall look of the resulting product.
If your actual fabric pattern is busy, choose something subtle. Look for open or spacious designs. It would be great if the designs are simple and easy to understand.
Overlooking pattern size
Mixing two fabric types with large patterns never looks good; rather, they look bolder, eliminating the exact feel of the patriotic material. You should consider the scale of the patterns when mixing them.
Use small and large pattern sizes together. You can decide the frequency of the patterns according to your expected result. If you are using the same-sized patterns, use them with lots of space between them.
Pairing with clashing colors
Not all colors and patterns look good with patriotic materials. You should avoid combining patriotic fabric with clashing colors. For example, you shouldn’t mix blue with other shades of blue or red with green.
The best patriotic color to experiment with is white. You can try mixing white with darker shades, making a proper balance between them.
Closing Lines
By now, you know that combining patriotic material with other fabric patterns is possible. So, visit Platinum So n Sews to buy the fabric. We also sell patriotic quilt panels on our website.