There’s always a bit of tension between “vintage” and “retro”, I’ve noticed.
“Vintage” is what used to be known, back in my youth, as second-hand. Or if you prefer, just plain old. Whereas “retro” is usually new, but in the style of old.
The tension arises because “retro” is sometimes seen as inferior to “vintage”. Like something pretending to be something it’s not.
And sometimes it is a bit inferior, isn’t it? But not always…
Sometimes new stuff in the style of old is, well, great.
I spotted these fabrics on Pinterest.
At first, I thought they were vintage. But they’re not.
They’re new butĀ retro.
And I think they’re rather nice.
They’re made by Robert KaufmanĀ and comeĀ from aĀ range called Auntie’s Attic.
Unfortunately I couldn’t track down a UK supplier forĀ all twelveĀ fabrics in theĀ range, but some are availableĀ over here in the UK.
The trouble with vintage fabrics is that they’re strictly limited edition. You usually only come across littleĀ bitsĀ and you never know where or when you might find any more.
But there are no such restrictions with these. Perfect if you’re ever in need of a vintage pattern fix in quantity.
Plus, they’re heavier-weight cotton canvas, so if you’re needing something suitable for upholstery, or bag making, or any other tough job, you can count on these.
JustĀ remember – keep it real. Be out and proud.
No pretending they’re really vintage.Ā ā„
I love them all – I certainly have enough room in my heart for the real deal vintage and a lovely bit of retro fabric too.
http://asaucystitch.blogspot.co.uk
Horses for courses I think they say, don’t they? There are certain things I find vintage fabric is just too precious for, especially if required in quantity. It’s also great to be able to mix and match – you can never have too many options fabric-wise!
Oooh, especially loving the top and bottom rows. All fabric snobbery is pointless; it’s either gorgeous or it’s not, irrespective of whether it’s ‘really’ vintage or ‘merely’ retro. Gorgeousness is sufficient, I feel…
I’m sort of a bit – well quite a lot – guilty on the fabric snobbery front actually Kate. I know it’s silly, but I always tend to favour vintage over new. Two reasons mainly: firstly I like the fact that the vintage stuff is just not available any more in quantity, so that you feel extra-specially protective and hoardy about it. And secondly, I like the sense of history about it and the feeling that I’m rescuing something from the past, makes me feel like I’m a collector, curator and preserver, rather than just a shopoholic fabric buyer!
Oh they’re rather fabulous! I haven’t seen much new “retro” fabric I like, but these I can warm to. Thanks for sharing š
You’re welcome! I think they would make great cushions, as canvas is nice and sturdy and keeps it’s shape better than ordinary-weight cotton.