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Home Decorating

Wrong side of fabric

12 years ago

Have you ever used the "wrong" side of fabric? I bought fabric to cover a chair and when I got home, I spread the fabric on the chair (to start the process of second-guessing my choice!) and realized that I liked the back side better. I've been switching it around--first the right side, then the wrong side--for about a week and I keep coming back to the wrong side. The weave, finish, etc. look the same on both sides. The only difference is the color. Do all fabrics really have a wrong side and if so (or if not) do you think there would be any reason I shouldn't use the side I like better? Thanks!

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Comments (6)

les917
12 years ago
Actually, I have seen several decorating shows where the decorators have chosen to use the 'wrong' side of the fabric. Sarah Richardson did it on an episode I watched just last week.

The only thing I don't know is if the fabric is treated with stain repellent, whether that would reach the back side.

I have some silk obi fabric that my dad got in Japan when he served there in WWII. I love both sides, and intend to have two framed pieces side by side, one each of the two different sides of the fabric.
forhgtv
12 years ago
Absolutely! I often prefer the "wrong" side assuming the weave is reversible. I've even used the wrong side of rugs because I liked the more muted colors.
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Betsy418
Original Author
12 years ago
Thanks for your comments. It's strange how I didn't even notice the back side in the store but once I put it on the chair, it just "popped," as they say. Les, I think framing those fabrics is a great way to showcase them (and preserve them) and HGTV, how funny that you mentioned a rug. I just bought a small one to use in the bathroom. It's so new it's still in the bag but I went and checked it and found a nice surprise--it's "reversible." Thanks again!
powermuffin
12 years ago
Art quilters use the wrong side of fabric all the time. And I certainly have done it. I just finished a taylored bedskirt where I did that. Go for it!
Diane
sheesh
12 years ago
You can also use one side for the main fabric, the other for trim or bias accents that match perfectly.
Betsy418
Original Author
12 years ago
Diane, I don't quilt but have some friends at church who do and I think I remember hearing them talk about using the reverse side. I had just forgotten it until you mentioned it. And Sherrmann, I love your suggestion. I really like using coordinating trim (my upholsterer calls it welting) and in fact when I bought the chair fabric I also bought solid colored fabric to cover the trim. I never would have even thought to do what you suggested. I'm gonna end up with a beautiful one of a kind chair--so happy!! Thanks everyone.
PS: Between finally deciding on which side of the fabric to use, the idea for trim, and my newly discovered two-for-one rug, it's been a great day at my house! :)

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