Chenille is a form of weaving that result inone of the softest textures of all. Tapestriesmade from chenille require delicate handling, but aretactilely interesting and more touchable than any other type of tapestry. Chenille isactually the French word for caterpillar. The wordin common parlance is used now to describe the type of fabric; in this case,for the procedure by which it is made.


Chenille is manufactured by wrapping shortlengths of fabric, called piles, around a tightly wound core of yarn. When theedges of these piles stand at right angles from the yarn's core, the chenille gains its soft, characteristic texture andappearance. Chenille can even look iridescent attimes. It commonly is manufactured from cotton, but versions using acrylic, rayonand olefin exist and are not quite as easilydamaged.


The process for making chenille iscomplex and must be done expertly for a strong thread that gives the appearanceof being made from fine filaments. Good chenillethread can be used as needed for different applications woven into fabric bywhatever means necessary to produce throws, upholstery,carpets, rugs and wall hangings.


The History of Chenille


As well as textile historians can determine, chenille type yarn first appeared on the scene sometimeduring the eighteenth century. Hand woven tapestriesand throws of chenille quickly became popular due tothe silky soft texture and near iridescence of the material. By the nineteenthcentury, the Jacquard loom had revolutionized the tapestryweaving industry, and Jacquard woven chenille wallhangings began to gain popularity.


The Art Nouveau movement gavea new look to the world of tapestry art.Reproductions of paintings in the stylistic form were easily translated to theloom, and many people opted for the warmer look of fabricwall hangings over the sterility of framed prints. Mass production onmechanized looms has made these works of art readily available.


The idealized figures, detailed backgrounds and decorativeborders of Art Nouveau done in soft chenille threadmakes these tapestries a perfect addition to almostany home. The dcor can be as lush or as modernistic as desired tapestries are the perfect fit for every type of interiorlayout. For those who prefer a more Renaissance style feel, castles and coatsof arms lend a medieval flavor to a room.


Soft or Bold Chenille Tapestries Cover all Styles


Francois Boucher was a noted French painter who specializedin religious and pastorally themed art; his works translate smoothly to thewoven medium and are often reproduced in chenille.His rococo paintings featuring idyllic landscapes and romantic scenes are thefavorite of many designers looking for a Louis XV influence. One or more ofthese tapestries can easily be used as theinspiration behind study, library or parlor. You can carry out the French themewith fine reproductions of the furniture dated from the same era.


For those who prefer a more focused attraction, a tapestry illustrated with a bird, butterfly or even a pieceof fruit can provide contrast to minimalist furniture and neutral colors. Thesesubjects provide a splash of color that draws the eye and brings a sense of theoutside world into an austere room. The use of chenilleto soften sharp edges in otherwise stark surroundings can completely alter themood of the space! It suddenly makes the room touchable and friendly, even ifyour choice of furnishings and colors are somewhat cool.


Simpler patterns come across nicely in chenilleas well. Celtic designs are favorites of many interior decorators, providing avast array of motifs and colors to choose from. These tapestrieswill work well in almost any setting, and provide a nice backdrop to a busyroom. French designs have a more floral appearance, with stylized images on a contrasting background. Native American motifs are becoming more popular as well,with bold colors and geometric designs.

 

Hanging Chenille Tapestries


Hanging properly is very important with chenille tapestries a solid pocket sewn across the back and reinforced with sturdy fabric is best, as chenille can stretch and hang awkwardly if individual hanging loops are used. An ornate rod may be desired to complement the natural beauty of these tapestries, and can be hung on brackets. Choose a style that will complement the tapestry itself a heavy rod for bold graphics or a more delicate one for softer designs.


Chenille is the perfect medium for tapestries; this textile makes your wall hangings even more unique and you are sure to receive plenty of compliments. Consider exploring the soft and silky side of wall art the next time you are inspired to do a room makeover!


About the Author


Angela Dawson-Field divides her time between writing and the &sec=article&uinfo=<%=server.URLEncode(1911)%>" target="_blank">http://www.thetapestryhouse.com/ Tapestry House. She writes extensively on &sec=article&uinfo=<%=server.URLEncode(1911)%>" target="_blank">http://www.thetapestryhouse.com/products/index.html tapestries & wall hangings.


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