Monday, March 2, 2015

Chevron Craving

Yellow and Blue Gradient Chevron Fabric
Yellow and Blue Gradient Chevron Fabric   Created by Tanya Draws
      The craving for chevron design products had a rebirth a few years ago, and today it has become a very popular pattern in fashion and home decor. The original meaning of the word chevron describes the inverted "V" "^" shape of roof rafters on buildings, it  is derived from Old French and Middle English.  The ^ shape and multiple ^^^^^^ zig zag patterns have historical roots in ancient buildings and artifacts.  The  ancient design  was often painted on Egyptian ceilings and Solomon's Temple. Chevron beads were created in Italy, later they were often used to trade for goods in Africa, and North and South America in the 15th century.
     
    The 21st century is not the first time in history that there has been a craving for chevron. In the 10th century in Normandy France the zig zag pattern was used as a part of the architecture in churches. Here the the pattern was added as moldings or carved into pillars to draw the eyes away from the large heavy size of the structure. This technique became so popular it was often a part of buildings designed in England and Scotland during this time period. This style is known today as Norman Architecture.
     The Collegiate Church of Saint-Evroult founded in 1082 is located in Mortain, Normandy France. This photo shows the extensive use of the chevron pattern and how it makes the large arch seem smaller. The layers of chevron draw you into the door.

       The Durham Cathedral in the United Kingdom has the chevron design etched into the large pillars to give the a softer effect. When it was finished in 1133 the Cathedral was one of the first English buildings with a large amount of the design  found through out the structure. 


     A single chevron shape is special to Freemason's and is a part of their Masonic symbol, it symbolizes completion of important work. It also has historical meaning as it was drawn on shields and family crests to designate honor and accomplishments. Today the chevron continues to be used in designating ranking by military and police.


     Today this chevron zig zag pattern is so popular, it is a favorite design to decorate homes and offices. The pattern is found on draperies, rugs, pillows and wall decor.  The pattern can be created very small or large to project different effects in the room.    

      These are links to a variety of DIY projects to make Chevron decor for your home:



Here are some of my favorite chevron home decor items:

Black White Red Chevron Pattern Wood Print created by Blooming Vine Design




 
Chevron ZigZag Pattern Hanging Pendant Lamp
Chevron ZigZag Pattern Hanging Pendant Lamp by GLManley
View Chevron Lamp-In-A-Box Lamp online at zazzle

Chevron ZigZag Pattern Hanging Pendant Lampby G L Manley

Modern faux gold glitter black chevron pattern pillow by  Girly Trend.

     The craze for chevron designs in personal fashion items shows how popular this pattern still is. Several styles of clothing for men, women and children are made with the pattern. The design is also found in several fashion accessories including: belts, scarves, nails, purses, electronics and phone covers. Here are a few examples of chevron fashions. 




     Chevron craft projects are very popular today, you can make your own custom chevron design item from fabric, yarn, paint or paper.  It is also a wonderful pattern to design special gifts and gift wrap from. There are a variety of unique chevron products in stores and online. If you still are not able to find that special chevron item you are looking for just create it yourself. Here are three great places to create your own chevron designed products to decorate yourself or your home!





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