An American staple, plaids and checks have been around for as long as we can remember. From picnic table coverings, fresh upholstery to elegant window dressings the applications are endless.

Spring and summer support the traditional plaids and check colors (reds, greens, yellows and blues) while fall and winter support the deeper color lines. Right now my mind is on a new collection just introduced by F. Schumacher, The Calypso Collection: Mad for Plaids and Checks. This “pattern happy” collection brings new life to ginghams, tattersalls and tartans.

Plaids and checks are great complements to other patterns including florals, wovens and of course solids. They also bring a crispness and relaxed and inviting feel to your space.

The variation of scale in this collection is refreshing and filled with variation in texture. I love a plaid or check on chairs and they bring a fresh, crisp look to windows. They can also be used on walls and are beautiful when used for bedding.

Take a closer look at the patterns highlighted in this article; for a full view please follow the link below.

Be inspired: http://www.fschumacher.com/collections/calypso-plaids-checks.aspx