Anyone who grew up on the 1960’s is familiar with Marimekko [MAH-ree-meh-ko], the great Finnish design company that produces textiles and women’s clothing that is still popular today. Marimekko designs are bold, oversized and reflective of the aesthetic of mid-century modern decor. When Jackie Kennedy bought 7 Marimekko dresses in 1960 while her husband was running for President, she immediately created a fashion trend. They were loose-fitting, brightly coloured and Marimekko became a household name. The red and pink poppy pattern, Uniko, created in 1964, is instantly recognizable and can be seen on everything from coffee mugs to raincoats. Even Converse has a line of running shoes in Marimekko fabrics.
I recently ran across a blogger, Pillar Blue Box, who covered a bench in blue Uniko. It’s very impressive and you can read about it here.
I have a true fondness for all things Marimekko because I grew up in the 1960’s and I associate their designs with everything that was hip and modern looking at the time. Their fabrics stretched over a frame, like a canvas, was an inexpensive way to add colour and the instant look of modernity to a room. As with all things mid-century modern, Marimekko has enjoyed a resurgence in North America and their products and fabrics can be purchased in many stores. I have bought some of their paper napkins and used them in decoupage.
This mirror, tray and some of the wooden hangers are painted with chalk paint and have Marimekko napkins on them.
When I decoupage, I use Mod Podge but I don’t like it as a topcoat. These all have clear acrylic varnish on them. It protects the paper and unlike MP, it will not be sticky. What I like about the Marimekko is that it looks so contemporary.
http://www.elizabethandcovintage.com/
http://www.sadieseasongoods.com/
http://mythriftstoreaddiction.blogspot.ca/2016/04/vintage-charm-party-28.html
http://piecedpastimes.blogspot.ca/
http://www.findingsilverpennies.com/2016/05/silver-pennies-sundays-link-party-167.html
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