Designers know that spring inspires a longing in folks for brilliant sunshine, brightly colored blossoms and other fineries of nature. Using vibrant colors and eye-catching textures, three well-known design/textile firms have created spring lines of fabrics that let you unleash the beauty of spring indoors. From throw pillows to sheets to chair coverings, the vivid colors, pretty floral patterns and delicate textures will motivate you to bring the freshness of the new season into your home.
Earthy shades
To captivate the imagination this spring, Schumacher is relying on soft, earthy shades in its fabric collection. Gweneth Linen, for example, comes in 18 colors from chestnut to forest to wheat. Fantasia Floreale, used on the Waterbury lounge chair pictured here, is an all-cotton print bursting with the rich colors of marigolds and tulips.
Alexander Julian Collection
Dan River used the talents of interior designer Alexander Julian to achieve the illusion of watercolor art in its spring line. The new Alexander Julian Collection combines "nature's most beautiful colors with a hand-painted artisan's look."
The pictured comforter/sheet set features soft shades of lavender, jade and pistachio and is covered in geometric patterns that resemble paint strokes from an artist's brush.
Bold and bright
The centerpiece of Brunschwig & Fils' spring collection is a series of printed fabrics inspired by Hispanic and early American folk art. Boldly colored prints and weaves, with nature motifs such as blooms, birds and wildlife, predominate.
Pictured is the Animalitos cotton print, patterned with fruits, flowers and whimsical animal figures.
EVENTS:
* The Mid Atlantic Antiques Market celebrates its 13th year next Sunday. More than 100 antiques dealers will offer a large variety of Americana, folk art, period decorative arts and other specialties. Show hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $6; $15 for early-bird shoppers (7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.). Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship. Take Route 70 west to Exit 80. Call 410-228-8858 for more information.
* The Howard County Master Gardeners program is offering a workshop on edible flowers and medicinal plants next Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Cost is $5. Advance registration recommended. The workshop will be held at the Maryland Cooperative Extension, Howard County Office, 3525-L Ellicott Mills Drive, Ellicott City. Call 410-313-2707 for more information.
Home Front welcomes interesting home and garden news. Please send suggestions to Karol V. Menzie, Home Front, The Sun, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, Md. 21278, or fax to 410-783-2519.
Pub Date: 03/21/99