Decorating With Tartan? Then Give These 8 Styles a Whirl

From decorating with buffalo check to styling classic tartan, plaid is an incredibly versatile pattern with a rich history. Tartan patterns work well with any style – ranging from a warm country kitchen to a cosy traditional-style living room. While tartan is often associated with autumn and winter, this pattern actually works great all year long. Continue reading for eight ideas that make decorating with tartan and plaid simple.

1. Lay Down a Tartan Rug

Warm up industrial-inspired silhouettes with a cosy tartan rug. The oversized tartan pattern pictured above makes the room appear more spacious as the pattern draws the eye outward. A comfortable tartan rug also provides a soft spot for your feet on cold mornings. Opt for a light-coloured tartan to create a neutral foundation that anchors the space. When decorating with tartan, a subtle two-toned design works well with different patterns and doesn't distract from other decorative elements.

2. Choose a Tartan Blanket

Make your bedroom more inviting with a tartan blanket or coverlet folded at the foot of the bed. Choose a timeless tartan pattern in a neutral colour like soft gray or light brown to match bedding year-round. Consider a blanket made with natural fibres like linen or cotton for long-lasting quality. The lived-in softness is ideal for afternoon naps or chilly nights. Opt for a comfortable cotton blanket for transitional weather and thicker wool or alpaca during the colder months.

3. Opt for Tartan Upholstery

With a bold colour-blocked pattern, decorating with buffalo check is easy. Similar to stripes, buffalo check layers well with a variety of colours and patterns, like a vintage-inspired rug and a palette filled with earth-toned neutrals. Tartan upholstery adds visual interest and dimension without feeling complicated. Choose a pair of upholstered armchairs or a tartan sofa to create a cosy seating area made for good conversation.

4. Layer Tartan Bedding

Snuggle up with a tartan-patterned bedding set. Opt for a duvet cover with a traditional tartan or buffalo check design to bring a touch of nostalgic style. When layering two different types of checks, it's best to pick prints with different scales to keep the patterns from competing. We love how the small gingham print complements the larger scale of the red-and-black tartan duvet. Finish with solid-coloured bedding essentials, such as simple gray pillow shams and a crisp fitted white sheet to balance the look.

5. Create Balance With a Tartan Throw Pillow

Cushions are a subtle way to add a touch of plaid to the decor you own and love. With clean lines and muted tones, tartan cushions can be layered easily with solid colours or other patterns – like the sage green botanical cushion featured above. Their masculine design creates balance when placed with soft velvet furniture or a delicate print. Tartan cushions add a classic touch to any living room, especially when paired with a traditional-style chesterfield sofa.

6. Add a Bedroom Bench

Whether you're getting ready for bedtime or putting away fresh laundry, a bedroom bench is a versatile and functional addition to add to the end of the bed. Window pane tartan adds dimension to the space and complements the solid-coloured bedding. The tartan upholstery brings warmth and texture, making the bedroom feel like a retreat. If you're limited on space in a bedroom, consider bringing the bench to the hallway or using it as spare seating during meals in the dining room.

7. Set the Table With Tartan Linens

Add warmth to the dining table with tartan accents. Tartan table linens are casual enough for everyday meals when used alongside simple white dishes and stainless steel cutlery. Dress up tartan for special occasions with seasonal greenery and brass accents. Layer a tartan tablecloth with a solid-coloured table runner for an elegant tablescape. For a laid-back gathering try mixing tartan placemats with a striped runner in a similar colour to create a cohesive place-setting

8. Stay Warm Outside

Transition your outdoor seating area for cooler weather with cosy textiles. Add a knitted blanket and a few cushions for extra comfort and warmth. For a timeless look pair solid-coloured cushions with classic stripe or tartan patterns. Decorating with tartan will make an outdoor wicker set look inviting even as the weather cools down.

Tip: Discover more decorating ideas and inspiration with:

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• 10 Modern Wallpaper Ideas to Uplift Your Home
• Master the Art of The Gallery Wall