Decorating Guides
Twist Up a Room's Look With Tie-Dye
Dip into the organic patterns of tie-dye for one-of-a-kind style that can be — yes, you're hearing it right — thoroughly modern
Just so we're clear, the hippies did not invent tie-dye. Yes, they may have perfected the psychedelic variety and forever linked the technique to the Summer of Love, but tie-dyeing is actually an ancient method used all over the world. Japanese shibori has been around since the eighth century. Tie-dyeing is also found in Peru, India, Africa and Indonesia.
Tie-dying can produce subtle rippling patterns. It's the perfect wabi-sabi art, because it can never be controlled 100 percent. Every piece of tie-dye is unique.
In decorating it adds soft, organic shape and texture. It can be modern, bohemian, colorful or neutral.
Here are 11 examples of tie-dye on cushions, walls, beds and rugs. And there's hardly a hippie room among them.
Tie-dying can produce subtle rippling patterns. It's the perfect wabi-sabi art, because it can never be controlled 100 percent. Every piece of tie-dye is unique.
In decorating it adds soft, organic shape and texture. It can be modern, bohemian, colorful or neutral.
Here are 11 examples of tie-dye on cushions, walls, beds and rugs. And there's hardly a hippie room among them.
Another marriage of tie-dye and a more modernist aesthetic. When used like this, tie-dye can be the main focal point of a room.
This tie-dye-inspired flokati rug is both a colorful statement piece and the perfect grounding item for this boho eclectic room. It's '70s, but not ironically so.
This wall is certainly not really tie-dyed, but it has that same soft, organic look. It's like a super close-up of agate or lapis. Simply gorgeous.
You don't even notice at first that these hot-pink curtains are tie-dyed. But they are, and they work.
Tie Dye Rug
I love the subtle tie-dye pattern on this area rug. This could work even in a traditional room. There's nothing hippie about it.
John Robshaw Textiles Ooo Tie Dye Pillows
John Robshaw is known for his gorgeous patterns inspired by ancient designs from around the world. This beauty, inspired by shibori, is no exception.
Tie-Dye Printed Wall Covering
In this neutral room, the tie-dye-pattern wallpaper evokes wood grain and a cozy cabin feel without being too woodsy.
Tie-Dye, by Shabd Simon-Alexander
Shabd Simon Alexander is a master of gorgeous, subtle tie-dye, and this book is chockablock with how-tos and good ideas.