Primitive Style = Americana
Primitive decor style is reminiscent of early America. As you can imagine in that era there was little ready-made furniture or anything else available. Families made their own cupboards, beds, rugs and even toys. They made the basic necessities with their own two hands, simple tools and what they had on their land or supplies they could purchase at the general store. What they created out of necessity you can celebrate today with a primitive styled home that is cozy and inviting.
Furniture
Furniture hand-hewn with simple tools resulted in a rough, uncomplicated construction. Furniture was built for a purpose not to be pretty. To copy that look today we distress our furniture and copy the imperfections to get that Americana look. Incorporating antiques is another way to incorporate a primitive decor feel.
Accessories
Folk art is a staple of primitive style. Artwork and accessories feature many recurring themes including angels, stars, crows, pineapples, saltbox houses, sheep, horses, pigs, cats, willow trees, and wood signs. Folk artists often use techniques to make a new item look old and worn. Staining fabric with coffee or tea is a great way to age paper or fabric. In a primitive styled home you’ll see homespun embroidery, hand-sewn quilts, and braided or hooked rugs. Woven baskets, grapevine wreaths and handmade pottery all add to this simple decor style.
Lighting
A wrought iron chandelier is perfect for lighting for the primitive styled home. Lamps with punched tin shades and candles on wooden candlesticks help build the ambiance.
Primitive Patterns
You already know I love a fresh coat of paint on anything. It’s a great inexpensive way to transform a piece of furniture or a whole room. In the days of early America, furniture, boxes and even stairs were painted. Some used special paint effects and stenciling to create designs. Sponges and crumpled paper are used to create patterned effects. “Graining” was frequently used on cupboard, chests and wardrobes to make it look like the fine wood grain of an exotic wood. A piece of wood is painted one color. After it is dry another color paint is added. Before the second color is dried it is run over with a comb. Patterns for fabric include plaid, stripe, or gingham.
Color Palette
The primitive style color palette is rich and earthy.
deep, rich burgundy
barn red
navy blue
sage green
deep yellow
dark brown
creamy caramel
Elements
Other primitive design elements include
iron
galvanized metal
pine birch and other wood
hand painted artwork
flax
muslin
cotton
gauze
linen
cheesecloth
grapevine
This style cross-pollinates well with rustic, folk, country & western, and Waldorf. I’d love to hear about how you incorporate primitive style into your home. Leave a comment and share.
Blessings,
Lauree
…keep dancing the dream
Follow Dancing Dish & Decor’s board primitive-style-defined on Pinterest.
Find more personal styles defined here:
