Monday's Lesson: Pattern 101 Chevron v's Herringbone

Using the correct terminology isn’t a must in every situation - quite often pointing; making descriptive sounds, and saying words like 'thingy', 'whatchamacallit', and 'doobywhatsit' will do the job.

However if time is of the essence and there is no room for error, knowing the right terminology can be beneficial. So, I thought why not start by looking at two terms in the fabric world that often get overlapped, confused and misappropriated - 'Chevron' and 'Herringbone'.

I hear you saying, "But aren’t they the same thing?" No, hence why it is the subject of today!

Believe it or not, there is just the slightest difference between the two, enough that somewhere back in history there was a need to give each their own term.

The difference:
A Chevron pattern is a continuous inverted 'V' shape, like a zigzag.

Whilst a Herringbone pattern looks like a broken zigzag - a result of a break in the pattern at the reversal.

Although very similar, the patterns have had quite different backgrounds. Herringbone got its name from its resemblance to a Herring fish skeleton, and originated predominately in men’s suiting. Whilst the Chevron pattern was first seen as early as 1800 BC in rock paintings and pottery carvings, prior to be being used to distinguish rank in the armed forces, amongst other organisations.

So there you have it, you know now which term, for which pattern.

Whilst the Herringbone being a small pattern repeat and a classic design has always been around, the Chevron pattern seems to have its moments in the spotlight and is currently one of the largest pattern trends.

Large scale Chevron, great colour balance in room.

Great love seat idea.

Just the tiniest bit of Chevron makes these beds pop!

Schumacher High Voltage colour Espresso.

The Chevron pattern thins and fattens at different points giving the look of a Herringbone.

Schumacher Adras Ikat Colour Jewel.

This is my bedroom - my favourite Aura quilt cover set - in a Chevron pattern!

Love the colour combination, repetition of the pattern, and that ceiling!

If you’re interested in more ways to incorporate Herringbone and Chevron patterns into your decorating, check out my Pinterest board http://pinterest.com/bobbinscissors/pattern-101-chevron-v-s-herringbone/