Fabric and Frames: A Color Story

Many of our patio shoppers call us for some help with their fabric selection. With so many fabrics to choose from, it can be a little daunting to match existing patio furniture frame colors to an outdoor fabric. A lot of times, some shoppers decide to go with a neutral color, knowing that it won’t interrupt the flow of their patio decor, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. But with just the right color of fabric, and maybe some coordinating fabrics, you can create that perfect look that brings out what you’re really looking for.

Matching your patio furniture frames with fabrics is more personal preference than anything else. There are no set “rules” per say, however, there are some basic frame and fabric guides to help with your decision. We’ll start by looking at some of the most popular patio furniture frames, and give you some fabrics that tend to work best with them.

Green Frames:

Basic Textured Green Frame

Green patio furniture frames come in a variety of shades, but probably the most popular are the textured greens, with a hunter, or forest, color shade. For a subtle euro look (using a matching fabric) you can always go with a Hunter Green fabric. Hunter Green has been especially popular for the past couple of years, and matching it to the frame makes for a subtle, elegant look. Or, you can set up a contrast with a lighter Green color like Citron, or ad a multi-colored stripe like Midler Basil. However, you can definitely create some pop, when using hunter green, by adding some pillows of a nice coordinate stripe or pattern. Subtle reds make for a nice contrast against the green, but they also make for a great main fabric as well. Try not to pick out a stripe pattern who’s colors are way off the mark, Consistency adds peace.

Hunter Green Fabric

Matches well with the frame, and adds a clean look to the furniture.

Citron

A beautiful Citrus color that can bring a tropical feel to a Green frame color.

Midler Stripe Basil

One of the most classic stripes available, the coordinating natural color selection will add the pop without the pillows.

Bonaire Crimson

This patten has been available for almost 20 years, but still one of the most popular patterns.

Sandona Kiwi

I have to admit, I like this modern floral mix with the natural plant and citrus colors making a playful look that’s great for darker green fabrics.

Antique Beige

There’s no doubting it, Antique Beige has been one of the most popular neutral colors on the market for many years, with no sign of slowing down. This is a contrasting look that can be very exciting. In fact, we can probably place this color with all frames, because of it’s neutral nature.

*Note: Try to stay away from yellows and oranges. They tend to make your patio furniture look like a very big squash.

Bronze Frames:

Basic Aged Bronze Frame

Bronze is a great frame color when putting together an outdoor dining area. Bronze lends itself to more ornate type patio furniture, and can be played against with some exciting colors. Terracota, Cardinal Red and Burgundy goes great with Bronze, but you can also create a elegant contrasts with Natural (White) or the beautiful Bravada Salsa.

Terracotta

Plays off the bronze frame giving your overall look an earthy, rustic color that’s reminiscent of Moroccan looks.

Cardinal Red

The deep red of this fabric can create a striking combination with a Bronze frame, creating a fire and hearth warmth.

Burgundy

Again, another warm color to really set a rustic mood.

Natural (White)

This goes fantastic when you pair it with Cast Patio Furniture in a bronze frame. The contrast between the deep reds and bronze and the white make for sharp looks.

Bravada Salsa

This stripe is just exciting and modern, and worked with a lighter bronze frame, will really set up your patio set.

Black Frames:

Black

Your basic black is as classic as you can get. Pretty much works with any color you want, depending on your overall look. However, there is something about using strong primary colors and black that can set this apart. Also, patterns work wonderfully off black frames, so you can really brighten the look of your patio furniture, with a centering black undertone that’s sharp. With black, I can give you a myriad of colors, but I have these particular suggestions that might get your creative juices flowing. One word about black frames and white fabric cushions, be careful. If done incorrectly, you can have a very contrasting look that’s difficult to tie in with the rest of your patio decor. If your going to use white, choose a coordinating fabric for your patio umbrella or outdoor pillow.

Zeba Nutmeg

A beautiful and classic pattern with beiges and reds and natural greens that just plays nice with black.

Kona Chocolate

Who doesn’t love chocolate? Set against a black frame, the soft and relaxing chocolate color can be a beautiful combination.

Steel Blue

Feeling a little chic? The deep slate, natural flavor of Steel Blue works off the black to create a modern, cozy urban feel.

Stone Frames:

Stone

Stone frames are a great neutral frame that you can build a light and airy springtime feel with the right fabrics. The subtle pattern of the stone is great pallet to begin with. Look at the colors in the texture of your stone or textures frame, and you can come up with a wide range of patio decors.

Passion Cocoa

With deep cocoa color and the beautiful tropical elements, you can create your perfect tropic getaway, complete with sand and sky.

Stone

Well, of course. With a nice solid like Stone over your stone frame (I really wrote that twice, didn’t I?)

Vanilla Sandstone

Another one of my favorites. Add a solid red colored fabric, and you’ve got an lovely homey look.

So, there are some basic color combinations to get you started. Remember that ultimately you make the desicion as to was is right and wrong for you, but I hope that I gave you some more ideas to use for your patio furniture and you outdoor cushion buying.