Damask Wallpaper for that Old World Charm

When people think of damask wallpaper, they think of formal settings and old world charm. However, in modern society damask is widely used as a decoration anywhere in the home. They appear in tablecloths, napkins, cushions, seat covers and upholstery, curtains, draperies, wall hangings and even in clothing. The term damask was derived from the city of Damascus in the 12th century, renowned for the beauty of its silk.

Damask uses various materials, although it is generally associated with silk and now refers to the weaving style. The result is a fabric with raised designs on a silky lustrous background. The weave is dense and requires a substantial quantity of thread, so it is an expensive material previously reserved for stately homes and is a mark of luxury.

The modern damask wallpaper is inspired by the damask patterns of old, which were produced in Italy, Spain and the middle East. The original patterns were heat transferred into wallpaper to produce the elegant and classic designs found in some kitchens. Floral patterns were the traditional designs which were later supplemented with intricate geometric patterns and simple scenes from everyday life.

Old damask patterns are classics and they are consistently in demand for their charm, but there are new modern versions that are becoming very popular. New patterns of damask wallpaper include straight trunks of bamboo shown against misty mountains and violet clouds suggestive of Japan. Another modern pattern are flower forms overlaid by diagonal rays that slant across the pattern. There are also new hues like delicate peach, aqua, pink, jade, greens and blues never used by old damask weavers.

Wherever in the home the damask wallpaper is used, by its distinctive design it will be a focal point to a room’s design theme. The wallpaper’s texture which can be varied and its glossy effect will also lend an interesting aspect to the walls. Depending on the pattern, the damask wallpaper can be smooth, or some can be velvety. Some wallpaper are designed to look aged, evoking thoughts of the old world.