Decorating Ideas - Tribal Textiles

Tribal Textiles The Indian Story Contemporary Indian textile reveals a lot about the rich cultural past of India

Simplicity and variety have helped textile art from various pockets in India flourish to global acceptance.

India is known to be one of the oldest textile manufacturing countries of the world. The Indus valley is where it is said to have originated. Ancient literature makes detailed mention about the processes involved with textile manufacturing.

Indian mythology also reveals a lot about textiles

Amongst these, the Rigveda provides details about the weaving processes of those times. The Ramayana and Mahabharata have documented the existence of fabrics in that era. The stylized clothing of the rich and aristocrats and the simple clothing of the ordinary find brief mention in the epics.Apart from this, cotton material found in the Egyptian tombs was found to be made in Gujarat.

Most of the ancient writings also talk about textile manufacturing thereby reinforcing the fact that this was indeed in existence in the past. Surplus garments were often exported to other countries. This has been clearly scripted in the historical musings of the famous Vijayanagar empire (ad 1504). Textile manufacturing was referred to as an important trade of that era.

One of the reasons that the textile industry picked up in India in the ancient times was because of the suitable climate, social customs and availability of raw materials required for the process.From a trade perspective, India has had several ties with countries of the East and the West.

The popularity of Indian silk helped it reach the Roman Empire in huge volumes

Research has revealed pieces of cotton garments originating from Gujarat, in the Egyptian tombs.This was found especially in the tombs at Fostat, of the 5th century A.D. At some point cotton textiles were also exported to various regions of China. This happened primarily during the renowned times of the silk trade.
Silk fabrics from south India also found a big market and preference in Indonesia. While this was happening, the European markets were not spared either.

The ‘British East India Company’ made a huge killing in the textile business mainly benefiting from different varieties of Indian made clothing, one of them being Dacca muslins.

In this era muslins from Bengal, Orissa and Bihar also gained popularity. Muslin is a thin fabric made from cotton and usually has printed designs of flowers, etc. It has a shiny appearance. This style is still in vogue.

A lot of the current designs and patterns are a continuation of that school of art and design

The motifs, designs, patterns, etc. and the old weaving techniques are still used by handloom weavers, although the textile weaving process has changed significantly with the advent of power-looms.Indian textile has thus found a place in the global market, mainly due to its high quality.

That apart the pricing is very affordable when compared to the competition.One can find varieties to choose between Cushion covers, curtains, bed covers, linen, shoes, handmade paper, quilts, etc. And the best part is the price. These items are available at a fraction of the price one would pay in the western world.

Some other aspects gaining popularity are the Bandhani and Batik printing techniques

Block printing has amazed the western buyers so much that they are exported in huge volumes.Contemporary Indian textile reveals a lot about the rich cultural past of India. Simplicity and variety have helped textile art from various pockets in India flourish to global acceptance.

The historical revelation of this art has also helped in adding popularity to Indian textile art even today and will continue to popularize this art in the future as well.
About The Author: Adam Peters is the author of many resources on furniture related topics published at http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com . Find more information and resources on tribal textiles at his web http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com/tribal_textiles.html Article Source: http://www.BharatBhasha.comTribal Textiles The Indian Story : AllThingsIndian.Org

Decorating Ideas - Create Unique Southwest Home Decor

If you are searching for an inexpensive, rustic decorating idea, try using the beautiful painted drums made by Native Americans Indians

I was recently looking for a cheap way to redecorate my living room and guest rooms and give them a rustic, southwestern flare, and started purchasing wonderful Native American accessories for rustic home decor.

I ended up buying two beautiful painted drums that incorporated the perfect rustic look in my home and gave it the rustic feel that I was looking for. The thing I admire most about these painted drums is how they show a true reflection of Indigenous life and work through the paintings.

Perhaps you are like me and truly appreciate the authentic creativity of Native American art

As you study the origin of these paintings you will love how the artistic spirit of the American Indians can be seen in the painted drum. The beautiful hand painted drum heads serve as a gallery for the expressions and motives of Native life and spirituality.

Because the Native American drum artists find their inspiration through the work of their ancestors, owning one of these rustic drums allows you the unique privilege of being part of many generations of Native American artists. Each new line of Native drum artists creates their work, mingled with the past, to bring forth a truly unique work of art.

As you learn about the history of painted drums

you will see that animal drums have always been the predominant Native American musical instruments of choice and hold a special meaning to these Native people. The medium, with which they choose to paint, is different among drum painters and is a matter of personal preference.

Some Indian artists still use hand ground natural dyes, though paint has also become an acceptable choice as traditional drums give way to modern expressions of culture and creativity.Just like the variations of mediums used to paint the drums, you will also see that drumming traditions differ between tribes. Some tribes use large drums while gathered in a circle around it, while the drums of other tribes are unique and personally decorated by the drummer.

Now days it is very rare to find true ceremonial drums

but the Indian hand drums of the Tarahumara Indians are among the most authentic Native drums suitable for using in drumming circles or for southwestern home design. Drum painting is truly a beautiful form of art and an important part of the rich heritage of the Native American people.

The painted drum has come to signify both the drummer and the tribe, as well as preserve the Indian culture through paintings of nature and legend. If you are drawn to the true values of the American Indians, you will definitely enjoy giving rustic style to your home decor.

You can easily find these Native drums online or in stores that sell rustic and western home decor

And bring Native American culture to life in your home with the beautiful art of painted drums. About the AuthorCraig Chambers is the director of Mission Del Rey and author offering free information online about how to use Painted Drums for American Indian drumming and for chic southwestern home decorating.

For more information visit http://www.missiondelrey.com
Published At: www.Isnare.comPermanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=226628&ca=Home+Management

Choose Painted Drums To Create Unique Southwest Home Decor -- Isnare.com Articles

Decorating ideas - Techorate Your Home With Six Simple Tips

New homeowners and those revamping their homes often find fusing technology and decorating to be a challenge. A recent survey found that more than 70 percent of Americans are unsure of how to integrate technology into their home decor, or "techorate," as LG Electronics has dubbed this marriage of modern technology with interior design and decor.

Trends in home decor quickly come and go

But by following a few easy techorating guidelines, homeowners can make this integration simple instead of intimidating. It's all about finding and matching the perfect pieces to complement your space and your personality.

There is no "one size fits all" in home techorating, but the LG Techorator Doug Wilson, interior designer from TLC's "Trading Spaces," has found some ways to universalize techorating basics for homeowners.

"The television has become the hearth of the 21st century, but I've seen people struggle with the basics, from placement to type," said Wilson. "That's why we've created techorating tips to help consumers successfully combine technology into the design of their interior space.

"Wilson, in his home-design work, finds the following techorating solutions most helpful:

1. Televisions can actually add to the aesthetic of a space rather than detract from the design. With sleeker flat screens, HDTV and new design elements available, the TV no longer has to be hidden or stick out like a sore thumb. The biggest mistake consumers report they make when purchasing a TV is buying one that is the wrong size for their space. When sizing up TVs, a good rule of thumb is that the viewing distance should be between 1.5 and 3 times the diagonal measurement of the screen. For example, a 42" screen is right for a room where you'll be sitting between 5.3 and 10.5 feet away. Companies like LG make HDTVs in both LCD and plasma, providing a screen-size solution for most any room.

2. Find the focal point of the room to determine the best place for your television. The place that looks perfect for your television may actually be the perfect spot. Don't be afraid to put that new flat-screen HDTV over your mantel but remember that competing design elements--fireplaces, large mirrors, picture windows--will make the space look too cluttered.

3. Don't let your flat screen be the only thing on the wall. Fill out the space using symmetrical design and equal proportions that still let the eye focus on the TV--such as matching pictures on either side of the screen with high-gloss frames to mimic the television to achieve balance and symmetry.

4. Match your decor. Remember that companies such as LG now keep room layout and design in mind when they manufacture TVs. You can find features like invisible speakers and color accents that make good design possible without sacrificing the integrity of the space.

5. Look out below. Fill in the space below the TV by adding a credenza or long table underneath the set to get extra space for DVDs and remotes while also drawing the eye into a larger design.

6. Be mindful of overhead lighting. Recessed or track lighting can compromise the picture quality. Opt for lamps or natural light for optimal viewing and to balance the TV in the room.Homeowners can find more tips from LG Techorator Doug Wilson paired with home technology from LG Electronics at www.lgusa. com/Techorate. BeforeAfter Thanks to Doug WilsonDECORATOR'S NOTEBOOK  for this.

Bedroom Decorating Ideas - Home decorating is easier than you may think

Home decorating is easier than you may think

And creating the peaceful and serene style of the Zen decorating theme in your bedroom can be a snap if you know which colors, accessories and furniture to make use of.  Here are a few design ideas on how you can get the illusion of a meditation garden in your bedroom. You should use soft colors and neutral tones colors for the tones in your Zen décor bedroom.

Get paint cards that match your decorating scheme

 You can take the cards with you when you are shopping for decorative accessories and be assured that the colors will match.In the bedroom, you want to add flower vases and photos in frames along with bed and nightstands. Go for a minimalistic style with stained wood furniture.

Taking the time to purchase the ideal accessories and furniture will add to your Zen décor look. Your home decorating project should plan for shoji screens, plants and furniture with simple lines around the room, but don’t forget to change your window treatments, flooring and walls.  Window treatments for the Zen decorating theme should be simple and plain. You might consider decorating your windows with bamboo blinds.

Now that your windows look perfect, your walls might be boring

To get your walls looking great think about using watercolors sparingly.You also want to be sure to get the proper lighting for your decorating style. bedrooms are better off with bedside lamps as lights. Try to choose lighting that is subtle or plain and simple to balance the Zen decorating theme interior design style. While you may not think too much about it flooring plays a key role in your interior design style so putting in area rugs to yourZen decorating theme bedroom can really boost it’s appearance.

The style of flooring you should have for your peaceful and serene style is organic woven mats which you ought to buy in neutral tones.For some finishing touches that will help enhance your Zen décor use a water fountain on a low table or a bamboo plant in a simple planter plus a lotus bowl with 1 flower, rice paper lamps, and Asian pottery to complete your theme. For a softer look add pillows that are silk In addition to greenery and plants.

Decorating for a Zen decorating theme bedroom

Can be a fantastic way to get a new look and if you plan it out properly it will be easy and fun. Simply purchase the items on your plan and put them in place - your room with have the ambiance of a meditation garden in no time! Thanks toBedroom Decorating Ideas Guide » Blog Archive » Zen Bedroom Decorating Ideas for this.

Bedroom Decorating Ideas - Decorating In a Down Real Estate Market

In a down real estate market, some homeowners are taking the time to spruce up their living space

But it's a challenge to put all the colors, fabrics, furniture and accessories together tastefully. But help is just a call away. Lauren Riddiough, an interior designer with Interiors by Decorating Den, is available to help homeowners design and pull together any space.

“When the market is down, a lot of people know they are going to be in their homes a little longer, so they decide to make them beautiful,” Riddiough said.Riddiough, 25, has been in the design business her entire life – or at least exposed to it.

In 1984, her mother Linda went to work as a designer for Interiors by Decorating Den and soon thereafter her father got into the business as well, on the franchise marketing side.

Although she earned a degree in psychology, in 2006 Riddiough purchased her own franchise of Decorating Den and stepped back into the world she grew up in.“It is surreal, but this is absolutely the right thing she should be doing,” said Lauren's mother, Linda. “She's more talented that I am. She sees it and gets it.

”Client Carla Fraser agrees.Fraser is in the middle of designing her house with Riddiough; she is one of Riddiough's 14 current clients.“I was clueless to what I wanted,” said Fraser, who, with her husband and daughter, moved into their River Creek home in March. Fraser immediately got in touch with Riddiough, who had sent her information on a nail file in a welcoming package to the community.“She came in and met with my husband and I, gave us choices and worked with what we had,” Fraser said.

Riddiough is working with the Fraser family, designing the kitchen, family room, dining room, foyer, living room and master bedroom suite.A whole house makeover is something Riddiough loves to delve into, but it is not the only project she will take on.

Interior decorating doesn't have to be a huge expense

“I work with a wide range of budgets,” Riddiough said. “Interior decorating doesn't have to be a huge expense.”Riddiough's take on each project is the same no matter what the size. She meets with the client for a free initial consultation to get a feel for what they are looking for.

She will take photos and then go back to her home office in Leesburg and put together white boards with concepts for the project with a variety of designs and prices.Depending on the project, Riddiough said the typical design project takes 10 to 14 weeks, mainly because of fabric and upholstered items.And while most may think hiring an interior designer is expensive, Riddiough says it all depends on what you want done.“Interior design does not have to be extremely expensive or scary to do,” she said.

The only circumstance in which Riddiough charges an hourly fee ($125/hour) is if a client were to hire her to give advice and help shop for materials.“If you buy product from me, there is no hourly fee,” Riddiough explained.She also added that since she works with 150 vendors, she can usually find what the client wants, and an hourly fee is rarely a discussion point because they usually end up working with her. Thanks to Loudoun Times for this.