Module 8: Decorative Textiles & Fabrics

In this module, you’ll explore the beauty, history, and functionality of textiles, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how fabrics can transform interior spaces. You’ll learn how to incorporate textiles effectively into your design projects, considering their visual, tactile, and functional qualities to enhance both style and comfort.

You will study the technical properties of fabrics, including durability, texture, drape, and maintenance requirements, alongside decorative techniques such as weaving, embroidery, printing, and pattern design. The module also introduces eco-friendly and sustainable textile options, helping you make responsible design choices that align with modern environmental standards.

Through practical exercises, styling challenges, and research tasks, you’ll develop the confidence to select, coordinate, and integrate soft furnishings such as curtains, cushions, rugs, and upholstery into cohesive and visually compelling interior designs. By the end of this module, you will be able to create interiors that balance aesthetics, functionality, and innovation, using textiles as a key tool to elevate your design projects.

This module is part of the Diploma of Interior Design (MSF50222) and is designed to equip you with both creative insight and professional skills in the application of textiles for residential and commercial interiors.

Why This Module Matters

Fabrics and textiles define comfort, style, and character in interiors. In Module 8, you’ll:

• Understand the technical and decorative properties of textiles and fabrics.
• Learn to mix patterns, prints, and textures to create harmonious interiors.
• Discover eco-friendly and sustainable options for modern designs.
• Select and specify fabrics for furniture, cushions, and window furnishings.
• Transform rooms with textiles to enhance aesthetics, style, and functionality.

What You’ll Learn

• Textile Science & Fabric Properties
  Understand the functional and aesthetic characteristics of different fabrics.
• Decorative & Functional Techniques
  Explore methods for mixing patterns, prints, and textures with confidence.
• Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Fabrics
  Learn how to select sustainable and organic materials for modern interiors.
• Mixing Patterns & Textures
  Combine textiles to create visually appealing and harmonious interiors.

What You’ll Do

• Select Fabrics For Various Rooms
  Choose suitable materials for window treatments, upholstery, and cushions.
• Specify Curtain & Upholstery Fabrics
  Determine weights, textures, and finishes for each application.
• Apply Patterns, Prints & Textures
  Develop coordinated fabric combinations that enhance the interior design.
• Create Coordinated Fabric Selections
  Present your textile choices clearly, linking them to the overall renovation project.

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 8, you will:

• Be confident specifying fabrics for interiors.
• Understand textile properties and decorative techniques.
• Create coordinated selections for window furnishings and furniture.
• Integrate patterns, textures, and prints effectively in any space.
• Apply eco-friendly and sustainable choices where suitable.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

Our expert tutors will support you throughout Module 8. They provide guidance on selecting fabrics, mixing patterns, and choosing eco-friendly options. You’ll receive practical tips for specifying and coordinating textiles, ensuring your interior spaces are visually appealing, functional, and cohesive.