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Textiles & Patterns

Fringe Trim

Fringe trim is a decorative textile edging consisting of loose threads, yarns, or cords hanging from a bound, braided, or woven header, used to finish and embellish the edges of curtains, upholstery, pillows, throws, and other soft furnishings. Fringe has been used as a decorative element since ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian civilizations, where it adorned garments and textiles of the ruling classes. In interior design, fringe serves both practical and decorative purposes, concealing raw edges while adding visual weight, movement, and textural interest to textile compositions. The gentle movement of fringe creates a dynamic quality that brings static furnishings to life, particularly in spaces with air movement from windows or ventilation. Contemporary designers have embraced fringe in forms ranging from traditional bullion and tassel fringe to modern cut fringe, macrame-inspired knotted fringe, and playful pom-pom edging.

Key Characteristics

  • ✓Loose threads or cords hanging from a bound header
  • ✓Adds visual weight and finished edge to textiles
  • ✓Creates gentle movement that enlivens static furnishings
  • ✓Available in an enormous range of styles and materials
  • ✓Serves both practical edge-finishing and decorative purposes
  • ✓Ancient decorative tradition spanning virtually all cultures

Types & Variations

Bullion fringe with tightly twisted cord strands
Cut fringe with straight, even-length hanging threads
Knotted fringe with decorative tied elements
Loop fringe with uncut looped strands
Pom-pom fringe with small ball embellishments

Common Materials

Silk for luxurious traditional fringe trimmingsCotton for casual, versatile fringe applicationsWool for warm, textured fringe on throws and blanketsRayon for affordable fringe with beautiful drapeJute for rustic, natural-fiber fringe trimMetallic threads for formal, gilded fringe edging

Works Well With These Styles

BohemianTraditionalEclecticCoastalMaximalist

Placement & Usage Tips

Add fringe to the bottom edge of curtains for visual weight that helps drapery hang beautifully. Apply bullion fringe to sofa skirts and valances in traditional settings. Use simple cut fringe on throw blankets and pillows for relaxed bohemian texture.

💡 Pro Tip

Fringe length should be proportional to the piece it adorns. Short, neat fringe works on pillows and small accessories, while longer, more substantial fringe suits full-length curtains and large upholstered pieces. Getting this proportion right is key to fringe looking intentional rather than incidental.

Related Terms

Tassel Trim

A decorative embellishment consisting of bundled threads or cords gathered at one end to form a hanging ornament, used on curtains, cushions, and upholstery.

Passementerie

The collective term for elaborate decorative trimmings including braids, cords, gimps, rosettes, and ornamental edgings used to embellish textiles and upholstery.

Crochet Textile

A textile craft using a hooked needle to interlock loops of yarn or thread, creating fabric with distinctive open, lacey textures and patterns.

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