"Taking A Textile Trip Back in Time... to the Era of Barkcloth"
Beautiful Barkcloth Fabrics at The Florida Show!
Beautiful barkcloth fabrics remain a favorite decorating accessory even today, more than 75 years after they were first produced. Their lasting appeal is evident in the wide selection of patterns available, some being reproduced from the original mill designs.
Collectors of these unique fabrics consider them works of art, installing them in their homes not only as upholstery, drapes and decorative pillows, but as framed wall art!
And when it comes to the title "King of Barkcloth," only one person qualifies. Brian Walsh of Florida Bungalow Fabrics, is a textile archeologist of sorts, having spent over two decades searching for the very best of barkcloth designs.
From Deco Drive to Los Angeles and everywhere in between, these splashy tropical delights were known to have enamored many homes with exuberant designs that were bold and flamboyant. These designs spoke volumes of the tropical influence of the 40's and 50's and how tropical mixed with mod was all the rage by the early 50's.
Today, Brian's fabrics are largely used in design of his decorative pillows, as well as wearable textile art in the form of messenger bags and market totes.
Be sure to attend this presentation on
Sunday, January 29, 2012
1:00 pm
"Taking a Textile Trip Back in Time to the Era of Barkcloth"
Fabulous Barkcloth Past and Present
A discussion of an era gone and the impact barkcloth had on the designs of the time. Barkcloth makes its entrance to Florida's design district from the 1940's-50's, and returns from the 90's through today!
Original Designs and Reproductions: Learn how to differentiate new from old barkcloths. How to spot a true vintage barkcloth, and what are the most collectible patterns and colorways.
Virtual Tour: A look at some of Brian's most treasured designs from his collection as well as his designs.
Florida Chic meets Tropical Hawaii: Two cities paralleled. Two states with something in common....barkcloth!
The Thrill of the Hunt: Tips on collecting and caring for vintage fabrics.
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