History of Toile

HISTORY OF TOILE

Toile fabric has been a popular choice among interior designers for centuries. This versatile fabric is known for its intricate and charming patterns, which often depict pastoral scenes, historical events, or other detailed imagery. In this blog post, we will discuss what toile fabric is, its history, and how it can be used in interior design.

 

What is Toile Fabric?

 

Toile fabric, also known as Toile de Jouy, is a cotton or linen fabric that originated in France in the 18th century. The name Toile de Jouy comes from the town of Jouy-en-Josas, where the fabric was first manufactured. Toile fabric is typically characterized by a repeating pattern that features a single color or two-tone design. The pattern often depicts pastoral or historical scenes, with detailed illustrations of people, animals, and buildings.

 

The History of Toile Fabric

 

Toile fabric was first created in the mid-18th century by a French textile manufacturer named Christophe-Philippe Oberkampf. Oberkampf was inspired by the Chinese and Indian fabrics that were popular at the time and wanted to create a French version of these textiles. Toile fabric quickly gained popularity in France and eventually spread to other parts of Europe and the United States.

 

During the 19th century, Toile de Jouy became associated with the French Empire style, which was characterized by its grandeur, opulence, and attention to detail. In the 20th century, Toile fabric experienced a resurgence in popularity, with designers using it in a wide range of interior design styles.

 

Using Toile Fabric in Interior Design

 

Toile fabric can be used in a variety of ways in interior design. Here are a few ideas:

 

Upholstery: Toile fabric can be used to upholster furniture, such as chairs, sofas, and benches. This can be a great way to add a touch of elegance to a room.

 

Curtains and Drapes: Toile fabric can also be used to make curtains and drapes. This can be a great way to add some pattern to a room without overwhelming it.

 

Bedding: Toile fabric can be used to make bedding, such as duvet covers and pillowcases. This can be a great way to add some charm and personality to a bedroom.

 

Wallpaper: Toile fabric can also be used as wallpaper. This can be a great way to add some texture and pattern to a room.

 

When using toile fabric in interior design, it is important to consider the overall design of the space. Toile fabric can be quite bold and detailed, so it may be best to use it in moderation. For example, you could use toile fabric on one or two pieces of furniture, or as an accent in a room.

 

In conclusion, toile fabric is a versatile and elegant fabric that has been popular among interior designers for centuries. Whether used for upholstery, curtains, bedding, or wallpaper, it can add charm, character, and sophistication to any space. If you are considering using toile fabric in your next interior design project, make sure to consider the overall design of the space and use it in moderation to create a balanced and harmonious look.

Tips for Installing Draperies

TIPS FOR INSTALLING DRAPERIES

  1. Measure accurately: Before starting the installation process, measure the width and length of the window or space where the drapery will be hung. This will help you determine the correct size of the drapery rod and panels needed. For tips on how to measure for draperies, visit our post.
     
  2. Choose the right hardware: Select a drapery rod that can support the weight of the drapes and fits the style of the room. Make sure the brackets are positioned correctly and securely anchored to the wall. Hardware options can be found here.
     
  3. Determine the correct placement: The ideal placement of drapery rods is 6 inches above the window frame and 6 to 8 inches on each side. This provides enough space for the panels to hang freely without obstructing the view or natural light. 
     
  4. Steam or iron the drapes: Before hanging the drapes, iron or steam them to remove any wrinkles or creases. This will ensure they hang evenly and look neat.
     
  5. Hang the panels correctly: To achieve a polished look, make sure the panels are hung evenly and have the same length. Pinch pleat drapes should be hung from the rings and hooks, while grommet drapes should be threaded onto the rod. 
     
  6. Check the length: The bottom hem of the drapery should just skim the floor or hang 1/2 inch above it. If the panels are too long, they will bunch up on the floor (which you may want to create a pooling effect) or if they are too short, they will look awkward. 
     
  7. Add tiebacks: If desired, add tiebacks to hold the drapes back when they are open. Tiebacks can be a simple cord or a decorative tassel. 
     
  8. Finishing touches: Once the drapes are hung, adjust the folds and pleats to create an even, tailored look. You may need to adjust the drapery hooks or rings to achieve the desired effect.

Selecting the Right Lining for Draperies

HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT LINING FOR DRAPERIES

Selecting the right lining for draperies involves considering a variety of factors, such as the level of light filtration, insulation, and privacy you desire.

 

Here are some general tips to help you select the appropriate lining for your draperies:

 

Consider the amount of natural light that enters the room. If you want to block out light completely, choose a blackout lining. If you want some natural light to filter through, but still want privacy, choose a light filtering or sheer lining.

 

Think about the climate in your area. If you live in a colder climate, you may want to consider an insulated lining to help keep your home warm during the winter. Alternatively, if you live in a hot climate, a lining that blocks out sunlight can help keep your home cool. 

 

Consider the color and pattern of your drapery fabric. If you choose a sheer or light filtering lining, the color and pattern of the fabric will be more visible. If you choose a blackout lining, the color and pattern of the fabric will be less visible.

 

Think about the level of privacy you want. A blackout lining will provide the most privacy, while a sheer or light filtering lining will allow more visibility into your home.

 

Consider the style of your room. If you have a traditional or formal decor style, you may want to choose a lined drapery with a more substantial weight and drape. If you have a more casual or contemporary style, a sheer or unlined drapery may be more appropriate.

 

Overall, selecting the right lining for draperies depends on your personal preferences and needs. It’s important to consider factors such as light filtration, insulation, privacy, and décor style when making your decision.

Visit our lining shop to view our collection and to learn about the different benefits of each lining. 

How to Measure for Draperies

HOW TO MEASURE FOR DRAPERIES

Measuring for draperies can seem intimidating, but it’s actually a simple process. Here’s how to do it:

 

  1. Determine the mounting location: Decide where you want to mount the drapery rod. Typically, it’s mounted 4-6 inches above the window frame and extends 4-6 inches beyond each side of the frame. This creates a larger visual area for the window and allows the drapes to be opened without blocking the window.
     
  2. Measure the width: Measure the width of the window or the area you want to cover with the drapes. To achieve a full, gathered look, add 8-12 inches to the width of the window. If you want a more tailored look, add 2-3 inches.
     
  3. Measure the length: Measure the length of the window or the distance from the mounting location to where you want the drapes to fall. For a standard floor length, measure from the mounting location to the floor. If you want a puddled or pooled effect, add 4-6 inches to the length.
     
  4. Consider the style: Consider the style of drapery you want to use. If you’re using a standard rod pocket style, you’ll need to add an additional 1-2 inches to the length to allow for the pocket. If you’re using a grommet style, you won’t need to add any additional length.
     
  5. Check for clearance: Make sure there is enough clearance for the drapes to hang properly. If you have furniture or other obstacles, you may need to adjust the mounting location or choose a different style of drapery.
     

Once you have your measurements, you can purchase the appropriate size of drapery panels and a rod that will fit your window or space.

The Value of Soft Window Treatments in Interior Design

THE VALUE OF SOFT WINDOW TREATMENTS

in Interior Design

When it comes to interior design, the right window treatments can make all the difference. Soft window treatments, such as draperies and curtains, are a popular choice for designers looking to create a warm, inviting, and luxurious environment. RM COCO is a leading provider of soft window treatments, offering a wide range of fabrics, colors, and styles to suit any design aesthetic. In this article, we’ll explore the value of soft window treatments from RM COCO in interior design.

Versatility

One of the key values of soft window treatments from RM COCO is their versatility. With a wide range of fabrics and styles to choose from, designers can create a look that is tailored to their clients’ preferences and needs. Soft window treatments can be used to create a variety of design styles, from traditional to modern, depending on the fabric and hardware chosen. This versatility allows designers to create a cohesive look throughout a space, tying together different design elements.

Texture

Another value of soft window treatments is the texture they bring to a space. Fabrics like linen, silk, and velvet add dimension and interest to a room, creating a sense of depth and warmth. Texture is particularly important in spaces with minimal or monochromatic design schemes, as it adds visual interest and breaks up the monotony. Soft window treatments also absorb sound, helping to create a more peaceful and comfortable environment.

Light Control

Soft window treatments also offer a high degree of light control, which is particularly important in spaces like bedrooms and media rooms. Depending on the fabric and lining chosen, soft window treatments can block out light completely or filter it in a way that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, soft window treatments can be motorized, allowing for easy and convenient control of light and privacy.

Customization

RM COCO offers a high degree of customization for soft window treatments. From custom sizes to unique hardware and trim options, designers can create a look that is truly one-of-a-kind. This level of customization allows designers to create a unique look for each client, adding value to their service and setting them apart from competitors.

In conclusion, soft window treatments from RM COCO offer several values to interior designers in the home furnishings industry, including versatility, texture, light control, and customization. With a wide range of fabrics and styles to choose from, designers can create a look that is tailored to their clients’ preferences and needs. Additionally, the high degree of customization offered by RM COCO allows designers to create truly unique and personalized spaces. Soft window treatments are a valuable tool in the designer’s toolkit, adding both functionality and beauty to any space.

Blue Ribbon

BLUE RIBBON COLLECTION

Classic patterns never seem to go out of style they only become more well-loved as time goes on. RM COCO is pleased to offer a collection of customer favorites in seven exciting new waterfall collections. Each is named after blue ribbon food categories from the great state fairs across our country. The collection offers an assortment of prints, wovens, embroideries, sheers and performance fabrics for a specific room or the whole house. RM COCO, fabrics and furnishing for living, style for life!

Taffy

Light Naturals

Funnel Cake

Light Naturals II

Lemon Shake-Up

Yellow-Bittersweet

Cotton Candy

Pink-Purple

Blueberry Pie

Blue

Granny Smith

Green

Old Fashion Fudge

Dark Naturals

ColorWorks Spring Collection Vol. 3

COLORWORKS SPRING VOL. 3

Seven new ColorWorks™ prints have been added to our Spring 2022 collection! 

ColorWorks™ allows you to simply choose a pattern, colorway and base fabric and we print your custom fabric for you. 

Mum's the Word

Spring has sprung with RM COCO’s newest ColorWorkstm pattern Mum’s the Word. Delicate butterflies flutter among the stylized mum blossoms and swirling foliage vines in this whimsical take on a classic floral. Offered in eleven delightful colorways, Mum’s the Word has been printed on our Valencia viscose/linen base fabric for added elegance.

Big Sky Check

Buffalo checks are taking center stage in the design world, and RM COCO is pleased to introduce Big Sky Check to our ColorWorkstm design library. Our Design Studio has colored this classic buffalo check to coordinate with Mum’s the Word to create a perfect pairing. Printed on our Valencia viscose/linen base fabric and offered in eleven color palettes.

Beachcomber

The first appearance of the word beachcomber in print appeared in the novel Two Years Before the Mast published in 1840. The art of beachcombing for objects of interest to share or trade has been with us ever since. RM COCO’s pattern Beachcomber features an assortment of scallop shells set atop an array of colorful background colorations. Printed appropriately on our Portside cotton duck, Beachcomber is sure to be a popular favorite in coastal areas, or anywhere a little island living is desired.

Beachcomber Stripe

Beachcomber Stripe is the perfect companion for RM COCO’s Beachcomber scallop shell print. This asymmetrical stripe pattern is the perfect foil for the classic layout of the seashells in Beachcomber. Printed on Portside cotton duck and offered in nine colorations.

Nautical Knot

Nautical Knot is a fluid pattern featuring interlaced cording in an intricate fretwork pattern. It is the perfect pattern for coastal-inspired room designs, but should also be a popular choice for settings requiring a soft-edge geometric or a formal Asian-inspired theme. Printed on Portside cotton duck and available in nine on-trend color combinations.

Circle Up

Circle Up from RM COCO is a bold and graphic pattern that is sure to please! Concentric circles have been overlapped in a fish-scale layout to add dimension and movement to the design. Printed on organic cotton sateen to create a crisp, clean look, Circle Up is available in eleven vibrant color combinations.

Kudu

Animal skin patterns are forever favorites that are always in style. RM COCO is pleased to introduce Kudu to add to this classic pattern category. This stylized antelope skin will be the perfect addition to any room setting scheme. Printed on organic cotton sateen and shown in seven colorations. We can’t wait to see how you do our Kudu!

Why Waterfalls are a Great Sampling Option

WHY WATERFALLS 

Lightweight & Easy to Carry

Waterfalls are also easy to roll up and toss into a tote bag to take to an appointment. They are much lighter to carry around than traditional books. 

Beautiful Displays 

Waterfalls are a great sampling option and they display beautifully. You can easily hang them in your retail space, design studio, or home office.

Easily See All Patterns at Once

Waterfalls allow you to quickly see all of the pattern and color variations of a fabric collection at a glance as opposed to having to flip through a book.

Quick Access to Product Pages

All of our waterfalls have a QR code on the back which will take you directly to the fabric collection on our website. Simply use your smart phone to capture the QR code and it will take you to the page you are looking for. These QR codes make it quick and easy to see available stock of a specific fabric or to order memos or cut yardage. 

How to Display Waterfalls

Display systems like these work great for displaying waterfalls. The mobile tower displays can easily be moved around showrooms to accommodate any space and layout. There are also several different hook types to customize your display. 

Room With A View

ROOM WITH A VIEW

A new collection of wide-width sheers and casement fabrics from RM COCO.

Room With A View

Light. It defines the world we live in and the spaces we inhabit. From the cool, blue glow of a winter’s morn, to the amber rays of the setting summer sun, light sets the stage for each moment of our lives. As designers, our job is control light. To create darkness, to create radiance, to create shadow, to create pattern and intrigue, to make our client’s living spaces comfortable, interesting, and beautiful.

 

Enter sheers and casements. These eclectic fabrics are one of a designer’s best tools for manipulating light, as they are specifically designed to offer varying degrees of transparency. They can soften and diffuse intense light and provide subtle spatial divisions, while persevering lines of sight to neighboring rooms or, in the case of exterior windows, the outdoors.

 

ROOM WITH A VIEW, our new wide-width sheer and casement collection, is must-have for any interior designer with a penchant for creating distinctive spaces. This collection includes 21 unique fabrics in a variety of weaves, fibers, and styles, providing a wealth of design options for spaces large and small. Being wide-width, these casements can be used to create seamless window treatments, and have another advantage, as well.  When wide-width casements are rotated for a seamless application, this actually removes the weight from the fill yarns, making the drapery much less likely to grow or stretch over time. Beautiful and practical!

Barely There
Hourglass Stripe
Room With A View
Gauze Stripe
Painterly Stripe

21 PATTERNS

74

COLORS

Euro Hems

A Euro hem is a beaded weight tape sewn into the bottom of sheer fabric as a hem.  Euro hems add weight to the bottom of the sheer preventing flaring and excess movement in breezy environments.  Euro hems also help train the folds of the panel so that it operates or functions better. Euro hems not only add a contemporary look to sheer panels, and they can solve workroom issues when sewing open-weave, mesh, and gauze fabrics.  Euro hem fabrics help lower the labor cost of many drapery treatments because the bottom hem is already in place.

 

Several of the patterns in our Room With A View collection have Euro hems. View them all here.

How to Check Pricing & Stock

How to Check Pricing & Stock

Finding real-time stock and pricing of RM COCO fabrics and  trimmings is easy. All you need is your smartphone!

Each label attached to most RM COCO fabric samples includes what is known as a QR code. While indecipherable to the human eye, these square patterns contain encoded information that can be easily unlocked by any smartphone. RM COCO uses QR codes to make it easy to jump over to our website and see the pricing and stock of any of our fabrics. Here’s how you can use them to quickly find the price and stock for any fabric.

Waterfall Label

iPhone users

 

Open your iPhone’s camera app and hover over the QR code, as if you are going to take a closeup of it. Once the QR code is in focus, your iPhone will automatically decode it and display the website link in a popup message. This link will take you to the product page for the given fabric. If you are signed into our site, you will see the price and the available yardage right on the product page. You may also order a memo, a cut for approval, or cut yardage from your phone.

Memo Label
Android users (Samsung, Google, LG)

Most android phones require an app to read QR codes, so step 1 is to go to the Google Play store and install one. There are many apps to choose from and they will all do the job – just pick one with a good user rating. Once you have the app installed, open it and point your camera at the QR code. Once it is in focus, the app will immediately decode the QR code and display the link to the product page where you can view the price and available yardage (you must be signed in to the site to view this information). You may also order a memo, a cut for approval, or cut yardage right from your phone!

Showroom Label

QR codes are the fastest way to find more information on a fabric. Use them to your benefit!