Adding Nautical Flair with Navy Ticking Stripe Curtains
Navy ticking stripe curtains infuse coastal character into any room with their classic nautical aesthetic. The crisp, graphic stripes paired with a deep blue hue evoke relaxed days spent seaside. These curtains introduce subtle maritime style through an uncomplicated pattern that works in traditional and contemporary spaces alike.
We'll also discuss different ticking stripe styles to suit your personal taste. To help you incorporate this timeless look in your home, we'll recommend perfect rooms to showcase navy ticking stripes and provide styling and decor ideas. We'll also cover care instructions so you can enjoy the breezy elegance of your navy ticking stripe curtains for years to come.
The History and Definition of Ticking Stripes
The term "ticking" refers to a tightly woven cotton or linen fabric with a distinct striped pattern. Ticking gets its name from the clocks of Colonial America that were covered in similar striped blue and white fabric. Early ticking was used to upholster furniture and became popular for mattresses and pillows.
Today, ticking comes in a variety of stripe sizes and color combinations beyond classic blue. The stripes create a clean, graphic look perfect for coastal design. Navy ticking stripes with white interwoven bands have an especially nautical feel. This dark blue and crisp white pattern transports you to the New England shoreline.
Different Ticking Stripe Widths
Ticking stripes come in varying widths to suit your style. Narrow pinstriped ticking makes a delicate statement with faint lines measuring an 1/8 inch wide. For a bolder look, choose a wider ticking stripe around 1/2 inch to 3 inches wide. Wide navy ticking stripes have an exaggerating effect that pairs well with other large patterns.
Variations in Navy Hue
While ticking is traditionally navy, modern options provide more flexibility. For a bright pop of color, try an azure ticking stripe. Dusty blue ticking has an aged, timeworn appearance. Go darker with a rich navy that contrasts beautifully with white ticking stripes.
Benefits of Navy Ticking Stripe Curtains
Coastal Cottage Aesthetic
Nothing says seaside cottage like crisp white ticking stripes against a backdrop of nautical navy. These curtains suggest sandy beaches and sea glass without being overly themed. Their graphic pattern epitomizes effortless coastal style.
Relaxed, Beachy Vibe
The casual nature of ticking stripes imparts comfortable, laidback charm. Navy ticking stripe curtains invite you to kick off your shoes and unwind, as if spending a lazy summer afternoon by the shore. Their fuss-free pattern cultivates a peaceful yet spirited ambiance.
Adds Nautical Flair
Make a subtle maritime statement with navy ticking stripe curtains. Their classic seafaring colors and clean lines bring a touch of nautical flair without overwhelming a space. Pair navy ticking stripes with driftwood accents and whitewashed floors for breezy coastal panache.
Design and Style Options
Layering Window Treatments
While navy ticking stripe curtains make a chic standalone window treatment, layering allows for added dimension. For enhanced privacy and light filtering, hang a sheer white curtain behind navy ticking stripe panels. Or combine ticking stripes with breezy linen curtains in a coordinating coastal hue.
Incorporating Other Textures and Patterns
Too much ticking can feel one-note. Blend navy ticking stripes with complementary fabrics and patterns for visual interest. Try natural jute rugs underfoot or mercury glass lamps that reflect ticking stripes. Mix in some preppy navy gingham and seaside-inspired coral prints.
Creative Curtain Styling
When hanging navy ticking stripe curtains, tailor the look to your space. For a relaxed vibe, keep the gathering loose and breezy. Or crisply iron panels and evenly space grommets to formalize the aesthetic. Tie panels back symmetrically or asymmetrically using nautical rope or driftwood curtain tiebacks.
Perfect Spaces for Navy Ticking Stripes
Coastal Living Rooms
Integrate navy ticking stripe curtains into coastal living room decor seamlessly. Pair with weathered wood furnishings, woven baskets, and ceramic garden stools in ocean blues and greens. Choose navy ticking stripes in standard double width panels or wider to make a graphic statement behind your sofa.
Kitchens and Dining Nooks
Ticking stripe cafe curtains turn kitchen and dining room windows into chic focal points. Hang navy ticking stripes high above the window frame as a modern alternative to traditional gathered valances. For fuller panels, use navy ticking stripes alone or combined with breezy white lace sheers behind.
Bedrooms
In bedrooms, navy ticking stripes establish a tranquil mood reminiscent of seaside cottages and ocean breezes. For nautical flavor, style them with weathered driftwood headboards and painted wood nightstands. Crisp white bedding pops against the navy, while netting and natural fibers enhance the coastal charm.
Sources for Quality Navy Ticking Stripes
When searching where to buy navy ticking stripe curtains, quality counts. Avoid thin, flimsy fabrics prone to tearing. Instead, look for tightly woven 100% cotton options built to last.
Daniel Dry Goods
Family-owned Daniel Dry Goods produces custom draperies and curtains from their North Carolina workshop. Their selection includes cotton duck navy ticking stripes handcrafted in the USA. Panels feature a 3 inch rod pocket and come sold individually.
Southern Ticking Company
Another North Carolina-based brand, Southern Ticking Company specializes in ticking fabrics and curtains. Their navy ticking selection includes both lined and unlined panels up to 108 inches long in widths of 50 to 144 inches. Small sample swatches help you match ticking stripes perfectly to your coastal decor scheme before purchasing.
Local Home Goods Stores
Don't overlook the curtain selections at your local At Home, HomeGoods, or World Market. Their options change seasonally, but you can often luck into well-priced navy ticking stripes. Just be sure to inspect the fabric closely since quality varies. When possible, opt for 100% tightly woven cotton ticking.
Decorating with Navy Ticking Stripes
Once you've selected the perfect navy ticking stripes, it's time to style them. Follow these expert decorating tips to accentuate their breezy nautical vibe.
Complementary Accent Colors
White, as the contrasting ticking stripe shade, looks crisp against navy. For accent colors, stick with various coastal hues. Shades of coral and salmon pink emulate seashells. Soft greens emulate sea glass, while sunny yellow reminds you of beach umbrellas dotting the shoreline.
Highlighting Texture
Play up the visible texture of the woven ticking stripe pattern with competing tactile elements. Coarse woven baskets, nubby linen sofa throws, and braided jute rugs work nicely. Contrast the soft curtains with rustic, distressed wood furnishings and accessories.
Incorporating Natural Elements
Wood, woven fibers, ceramic, sea glass, and shells enhance the organic coastal vibe. Display collected beach pebbles in glass vases or bowls near windows dressed in navy ticking stripes. Hang woven macrame wall hangings showcasing organic shapes and undulating lines. Work in handcrafted wood tables with authentic nicks, cracks, and imperfections.
Caring for Navy Ticking Stripe Curtains
Over time, high quality 100% cotton navy tick stripe curtains maintain their integrity. Here are some professional tips for keeping them looking their nautical best for years.