I recently attended a JAB ANSTOETZ textile presentation and I was completely captivated by the GRANDEZZA 2010 collection! The line offers textile masterpieces which combine elegance, luxury and sophistication. These unique fabrics are inspired by the international fashion catwalks and team striking colours with interesting textures for an ultimately stylish finish. And of course the Animal Prints in Zebra, Leopard and Snake were right on the front with exquisite patterns and colors!

Inspired by creations presented by renowned designers at fashion shows in Paris, Milan or New York and also by the impressions these capitals deliver, GRANDEZZA Vol.3 reveals itself with modern fabrics dressed up in interpretations of animal prints and in shimmering materials.

Beautiful Silver tones in Zebra and Snake skin print.

New York – Soho Club – Monterosi

Glamorous decoration and upholstery fabrics in 98 colourways present themselves in a very experimental and exclusive way. Here we see different scales of bold and vibrant Leopard prints.

But also soft colours such as white and  rosy-pink  like this small scale cheetah print on the chairs, which are much softer and more discreet. They radiate a calm yet amazing elegance.

For more information about JAB ANSTOETZ fabrics, please contact us.

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Any fashionista knows that style just must be shared with your furry little pooch!
Like humans, pets will feel pampered and all taken care off with this fun animal print collection of pet supplies and pet products. From Toys, to comfy beds, to fashionable outfits, to leash and jewelry, animal prints will fit your pet’s taste purrr…fectly!

Pet Carrier in Leopard Print by Toss Designs

Carrying your pet was never so much fun and fashionable! This animal  print pet carrier can be the all-in-one accessory you need for your best furry friend. You can use it as a bed or your handy carrier for all your shopping and travelling activities. Pets love it for its comfortable and cozy feel. By Toss Designs.

Buy Now Leopard Print Carrier $126.99

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I love the tailored clean lines and the inviting feel of this contemporary living room! Los Angeles designer Michael J. Skelton anchored the room with a pair of red Tai Ping rugs, and divided it in two separate seating areas with this gorgeous Chris Lehrecke daybed from Ralph Pucci, in vibrant red Zebra print. The red animal print upholstery is without a doubt an eye catcher and gives life to the architectural and organic feel of the furniture design.

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Now that all boots are ON SALE it’s the best time of the year to give a little up-bit to any outfit with fashion’s wild suggestions. Animal print boots will give you the drama and the all day long comfort you always wanted, in the best possible price. Leopard prints, Zebra, Giraffe,  Snake or hair on hide pony designs will make sure will keep you in the center of attention and no matter what you pair them with, you will you make a statement.
So if you want to to walk in the wild side and get a great deal, choose from short to extra long boots, and just follow the tracks of this forever fun footwear trend.

Annie Shoes Leopard Women’s Betrina Bootie

Sleeken your look without breaking the bank! Free two Day Shipping – Free Return Shipping   Buy Now $38.37

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If you haven’t seen the Schumacher’s new wallcoverings collection “Nest”, it is a MUST! You have never seen something like it. “Nest” is part of the  glamorous animal print patterns collection, and it is crafted entirely by hand using all natural feathers; these beautifully textured wallcoverings offer a sense of luxury and beauty that can only come from nature. Humanely gathered and arranged by hand on non-woven paper backed panels, wallcoverings in the Nest Collection have been designed in a range of richly layered patterns that feature an array of luminous shades completely derived from nature. The feather collection is sold by the panel.
Panel width: 38″ (97cm). Panel Height: 118″ (3m).

Since 1889, F. Schumacher & Co. has brought its commitment to superb quality and superior design to interiors where only the finest products will suffice, including the White House, the Chambers of the United States Supreme Court and countless distinguished residences. A fifth generation, family-owned company, F. Schumacher & Co. is proud to be the only supplier of decorative textiles from the 19th century still privately owned and managed by direct descendants of the founder. Today, Schumacher & Co aspires to be the top-of-mind destination for discerning residential and contract interior design customer who places their emphasis on design, service, innovation and luxury.
For more information please contact us.

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The Haute Couture runways insist that Leopard print dresses have always a place to be and they are here to stay. Right above a Christian Dior cocktail dress in a resent fashion show and underneath an elegant 1947  silk-chiffon leopard print gown, declare the timeless presence of the animal print glam.

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I was in a presentation of Harden Furniture a few days ago, and their Cow hide dining chair completely stole my heart! I love the chair’s cutting edge silhouette, the sleek gracious line, and the taller than normal height. The chair features hair on hide leather in Cow print in the exterior back, white vinyl in the front and the seat, brown leather welt all over and stainless steel nail trim. It is also offered in many fabric and leather choices.
Here is shown with Spring Creek finish.
Dimensions:25W-24D-38H.          171/2″ Seat Depth-20″ Seat Height.
For more information, please contact us.

The HARDEN craftsmanship
The hallmark of all Harden Furniture is craftsmanship. Generations of talented people have contributed to the Harden legacy and continue to do so, honing their skills and training the next generation to continue the tradition of fine furniture building.
Building on centuries of artistry and technical expertise has enabled Harden Furniture to not only survive, but thrive in very competitive economic environments. By blending old-world craftsmanship with modern technology, Harden has empowered individuals to increase the capabilities and productivity while streamlining efficiency and minimizing waste.

The HARDEN quality
Luxurious fabrics, beautiful solid woods, teamed with the famed Harden craftsmanship, create premium quality furniture. The type of furniture you will have for a lifetime. The type of furniture that features…
• 10-way hand-tie springs
• Multiple options for cushion construction
• 4 skirt treatment options
• 7 variations of nail head trim treatment with options for standard, staggered or customized placement
• Stock fabric selection of over 800 materials chosen by today’s current trends and styes
• Customized fabric applications/combinations
• Arm covers standard on all upholstered arm pieces.

The HARDEN tradition
A tradition of excellence is the defining feature of Harden Furniture. From beginning to end, consideration is given to ensuring that Harden not only meets, but exceeds, the expectations of our customers. That measure of quality has continued throughout five generations.
Founded by Charles Harden in the mid-1800’s, Harden has been a cornerstone in the Central New York economy, today employing 400 local craftspeople. Headed by CEO Greg Harden, the company currently services the United States and Canada, but is expanding into international markets. Though focused on growth and expansion in the global economy, Harden’s commitment to the local community has always been, and continues to be a focal point.
With certification from the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, Harden again testifies to its ongoing commitment to the environment. With more than 10,000 acres of managed woodlots, long-term sustainable forestry is the focal point of the company’s healthy status. An ample supply of top-quality, domestic wood species allows Harden to control costs.
In order to ensure that furniture arrives in good condition, Harden has, for generations, maintained its own nationwide trucking fleet. By delivering directly to our dealers, we minimize the chance of damage during shipment by controlling all aspects of transportation, from the forest to your door…the tradition of excellence continues.

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I recently stumbled on this old add of Millstone Coffee and I couldn’t resist posting it–nothing like a purrr…fect cup of coffee! And  in this wild Leopard mug, you have the ticket for adventure…
Millstone has over 30 blends and a good number of flavors to discover and the promise of  great satisfaction.
I personally prefer the plain or hazelnut decaf, with a good portion of cream and no sugar; how about you?

And if you are interested for the wild cup of coffee, here it is:

Leopard Print Mug:

Leopard Handmade Coffee Mug

The spotty leopard is believed to be a crossbreed of a lion and a panther although physically it most resembles the jaguar! This stunning big cat is beautifully hand painted on a 100% genuine Blue Witch mug.
* Individually handmade and hand painted
* Dishwasher and microwave friendly
* Gift Boxed includes a certificate from Blue Witch
* Product Dimensions : 10cm x 8cm

Safari Wild animals – Leopard – Mug

Another animal print pattern to add to you mug collection. Why drink coffee out of an ordinary mug when an imprinted mug in Leopard is so much cooler? Microwave safe, FDA approved. Image is printed on both sides of the mug. Dishwasher use is not recommended.

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Image courtesy of “Veranda” magazine

Image courtesy of “Midwest Living“

Courtesy of Better Homes & Gardens

Courtesy of Atlanda Homes And Lifestyles

Courtesy of Traditional Homes

You don’t need me to tell you that a Zebra hide rug can can give a whole different effect in a room’s flavor and style. From traditional to contemporary, Zebra hides can add color, texture and a sense of movement in any decor setting.  We often see them in more modern setups making their bold statement but lately they even grace more traditional rooms. You can use them on a bare hard floor or on top of a neutral,  non-patterned rug,  going with the flow of the room or diagonally in a random placement.
In today’s market you can find them in many qualities, coloration, sizes and prices–most likely in the form of a painted cow hide that imitates Zebra skin (see  Edelman’s faux zebra on the first image).  As with anything else, make sure you buy a hide that has been through a quality tanning process so you don’t have shedding surprises over the time of use. And for the ‘green’ lovers there are Zebra hide rugs  with 100% man-made materials that  they look pretty good and at the same time they are environmentally friendly.

Zebra Cowhide Mohican Rug

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They say it is a trend. I say it is style and fun! Animal print scarves are wrapping up any outfit and they make it classic. They can add a dash of wild or a splash of color and movement. From silk, to cashmere, to cotton, to chenille, animal print scarves are becoming a ‘must’ for women’s accessories. Here is a good example with Keira Knightley, Sienna Miller and Eva Longoria that they lead the way with Leopard print scarves.

Olive N Figs Shimmer Leopard Print Crinkled Stole/ Scarf

A fun accessory to bring a touch of exotic look to your any outfit this leopard print scarf is made with finest quality 100% pure wool. The ‘Olive N Figs’ brand of scarves are made with 100% genuine high quality fabrics like Silk, Wool, Linen. These scarves are not mass produced and hence are a one-of-a-kind designer scarves that you will not find at any other stores. With our ‘Olive N Figs’ range of accessories we assure you of quality and exclusivity.

Buy Now Leopard Print Scarf $34.52

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NO, this is not my kitchen! It is just Sticviews’ way to keep you alert, playful and in style! Sticviews is a company that can cover the artistic heart’s desire in a stick-’em-on way.    Any motif, design, art, photo and logo can literally be applied on any solid surface inside and outside your house! In their gallery you can see creativity galore and the “different strokes for different folks” idea…
For the daring and the adventures, this Zebra modern kitchen is definitely fun and works great with the sleek red cabinets and the black granite counter top. Yes, kitchens have gone wild and if you want more, check out the Leopard microwave and fridge…You would be Roberto Cavalli’s envy!

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Elegantly festive, this living room caught my eye with its beautiful hand-picked furniture and its classie French style! I love the combination of casual and classic, the rustic and the refined elegance all mixed together. The Christmas decoration is distinct yet not overdone, and the attention to the detail goes on the awning stripe animal print throw pillows on the sofa, and the eye-catching super big ombre Leopard print ottoman. The finishing touch -a fox fur throw- adds warmth and luxury. It feels like Christmas!
Photo courtesy of Traditional Home.

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Deck the halls, and bring a spirit of adventure in your Christmas decoration with these fum animal print ornaments! As everywhere else animal prints bring their splash of vividness anywhere you decide to decorate. For a non-ordinary and a stylish look you can mix these Zebra, Leopard, Tiger, Giraffe glass ornaments with your other collection or just go wild and alternate them for a complete animal print wild look!

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It’s not too late! If you haven’t figured out all your Holiday gifts  and you hate the mall, you can shop like a breeze from the comfort of your home and be on time! Most  cyber shops have great shipping offers and discounts that are hard to ignore. And there are some great deals out there and the cutest gift ideas!
Our UNDER $30 section has some awesome gift solutions for him, for her, for teens, for kids, for teachers, co-workers and practically everyone.You can stay in a budget,and  satisfy and impress all your loved ones with the move of your mouse!

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“Have a ball” this holiday season dancing with the stars, and be the center of attention of any formal party or holiday gathering!
We are presenting a breathtaking collection of animal print gowns and party dresses, that will keep you confident in any occasion. Our formal Animal Print Dresses are designed to allow you to express your own unique spirit, whether you are looking for classic one print ball gowns or feminine modern evening dresses in mix animal prints.  Exquisite embellishments and rich fabrics make for a colorful, fashionable collection, that is created to flatter any body type and every woman’s personal style.

Evening Gown with Leopard Print Accents

You will “steal” the night with this gorgeous long party dress! Walk on the wild side and be the center of attention with this chic and charming copper charmeuse satin gown with fun leopard animal print accents.
Buy Now Evening Gown with Leopard Accents.

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I am thrilled when I stumble across a table setting that is warm and inviting, yet a bit of surprise. I want to share  this sophisticated, earth tone tabletop design by Diane Breckenridge and floral designer Scott Hepper, presented in this spectacular urban St Louis setting.
I just love the eclectic mixed flavor of the tablescape, the subtle colors, the sheer elegance of the china and the stemware, the textured herringbone silverware, the natural presence of boxwood spheres, the classic tower candlesticks, the festive glass acorns and -of course-the exotic animal print linens. I am especially tickled with the bead-work detail on the Leopard print placemat.
The center flower arrangement with magnolia leaves and pods, is definitely a conversation masterpiece-hats off to Scott Hepper!
I wonder what’s for dinner…

Photos: Courtesy of “St.Louis Homes and Lifestyles” by Rob Grimm.

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Got a purse? This is the coolest Women’s accessory that you won’t be able to live without. Don’t go anywhere without your handy Animal print purse hook!
This absolutely awesome and innovative handbag hanger will keep you organized and “hands free” wherever you stand.
Never need to let your purse on dirty floors again! It is so useful at restaurants, in your closet, at your office desk, on a pool table, at a bar, etc. This item is so useful, you can use it to hang other things besides your purse, such as an umbrella, wires, towels, hats, scarves, belts, etc. and always in style!

They can hold from 15-35lb purse or handbag.
Available in Leopard print, Zebra print, Tiger print, Cheetah print, Giraffe, Mother of Pearl other Gem stones. Just purr…fect gift for the holidays!

Snake skin FUMI 3-in-1 Bracelet, Charm and Purse Hook

This fun handbag hanger, it’s a bracelet, purse charm, and hook for your handbag – all in one. The FUMI is the new Patent Pending designer way to store your purse while in public. However, FUMI is not only a heavy duty Purse Hook! It also functions as a bracelet and a purse accessory. You can use these from purses to diaper bags! It will hold any of your bags up to 35lbs.
When you’re not using it, you can either slip it on your wrist as a stylish and cute bracelet. You can also hook it onto your purse or Diaper Bag and it’s a little fancy accessory. Eco-friendly packaging. The FUMI is made of recycled materials and has a 100% recycled rubber pad to grip any surface.

* Wear it as a bracelet or use it to hang your purse while out dining.
* Made of recycled materials with 100% recycled rubber pad.
* Use it as a Purse Charm.
* It will hold any of your bags up to 35lbs.
* Eco-friendly packaging. Available in Leopard print, Zebra print, Fuchsia Pink Snake print/pewter, Black Snake print silver.

Buy: Snake Skin Purse Hook

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Here is Lily again! She is now 18 months and absolutely beautiful! She got dad’s blue eyes and mom’s  sweetness and smile. As always, Lily is fashionable and style aware, so she doesn’t only wear a leopard print outfit, but she is also surrounded by animal print accessories. Lily now talks, walks, sends kisses and answers the phone. She is just soooo cute!

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When my client Lynn asked me how to bring a more contemporary flavor to her traditional dinning room, I introduced Suzanne Kesler’s hunt chair by Hickory Chair,
because I just love its beautiful and clean silhouette. The hunt chair in a Zebra print married  with a solid fabric monogrammed,  it could be the perfect match to tie in with the contemporary charcoal and white carpet  and at the same time add a little pizazz to the room. We used Candice Olson’s Zebra print fabric in charcoal by Kravet, we custom ordered the monogram for the inner back and we used the gunmetal nail trim to outline the details. The results? A classic family heirloom!

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I recently stumbled upon this unusual Zebra marquetry table by Maitland-Smith, that is without a doubt a contemporary classic piece of art.
Marquetry is the art of painting with wood and it is often called intarsia or inlay. It usually encompasses creating pictures and geometric designs with thin slices of colored wood, shell, bark, stone, ivory, metal and other precious materials. It is a popular technique for decorating the smooth surfaces of objects, as well as a versatile creative art in itself. Marquetry is often found on the finest furniture and it has been around for thousands of years.
This particular Zebra table  is 26″ wide and 27″ high and features a tripod  base in antiqued finished aluminum with textured rosettes. For more information or to purchase, please contact us.

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Wild, yet oh so civilized. Think Kipling in South Africa during the Boer War, working at his typewriter with a trophy skin underfoot.
Imagine Isak Dinesen setting up housekeeping in Out of Africa, with her fine china and crystal sparking in the candlelight against the textured backdrop of animal skin rugs. That’s the native elegance you’ll create with Skins.
A thoroughly modern (and ecologically conscious) twist on a timeless look. From Antelope to Zebra, these animal print patterns are dramatic interpretations of the wild, and like the graceful animals that inspire them, demonstrate a breathtaking union of beauty and performance.
Skins are designed for both dramatic wall-to-wall installations and striking custom area rugs.

Of all the carpet fibers, Helios prefers to make its floor coverings from wool. That’s because wool is the most luxurious, durable, and environmentally friendly carpet fiber in the world. By combining the finest ingredients with in-house manufacturing, Helios Wools offer superior advantages that improve the health, comfort and beauty of your home while contributing to the betterment of our world.

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Animal Prints are steady up on top of the list in fashion runways again this year, and animal print purses are presented in all different prints, materials, sizes, shapes, and textures to cover every style. This year, animal print handbags are offered in a great range of colors and many times are outlined with leather trim details in many bold fun colors making them a perfect accessory to nearly any outfit.
The Leopard has been the most frequently used animal print in hues of browns, oranges, soft yellows and classy neutrals giving a liven to any look. Giraffe is now gaining  new heights and becomes a true favorite, followed by the spotted cow, the Tiger and the classic black and white Zebra print .
With the many colors available in Ostrich,  Crocodile and Snake skin, these skins are also extremely popular and can add immediate style and pizazz to any outfit. And for the artistic woman with a dash of whimsy, Tortoise and other shell handbags are just the latest word of fashion.

Brown Faux Fur Large Hobo Purse

This fuzzy faux fur purse will be your favorite companion and the most practical accessory! A plush hobo design by Bisadora that is both functional and animal friendly. Each Bisadora purse and handbag in the collection embodies the idea of “Engineering meets Art.”
Buy Now Brown Faux Fur Large Hobo

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I don’t know what it takes to become Oprah’s personal guest, but whoever qualifies, is about to have a great treat! Oprah recently gave a complete makeover to this scrumptious guesthouse and she is proudly touring us around. I love all the rooms, the textures and colors are just beautiful! I admire the mix of  styles and the attention to the detail that the designers Andre Walker and David Simmons gave to the project.  I can see Opera’s love to host and take care of her loving friends and family, and I join her enthusiasm for the dreamy results!  In Oprah’s words, “When you’re trying to put a home together, you’ve got to be careful to fill it with only the stuff that you really, really love. The pieces that mean something to you will work wherever you go, and it’s so satisfying to give them new life. Beautiful things live on.”

PS: Notice how many times she uses the word “love”…

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“Life and Beauty are the only two rules.”
- Maya Romanoff

Sublime fusions of ancient technique and contemporary opulence, surfaces created by artist and inventor Maya Romanoff are distilled from archeology, anthropology, metallurgy, Woodstock-era psychedelia- and sheer existential joy. Maya’s earliest works included monumental hand-dyed textile installations, materialistic (literally) “wearable art”, and the hedonistic luxury of “interior parks:” complete textile environments based on the idea of “…making art that is not so much objectified as occupied.” Right above, we see an exquisite Mother of Pearl Shell wall tile surface.

The Maya Romanoff foundation was founded in1969 to bring the possibilities of functional art to a broader audience. In 1988, another dynamic visionary, Joyce Lehrer (Romanoff)  joined the company. She has focused on expanding markets and refining production techniques to sustain consistent quality, durability, and artisanal hand-at scale. Together Joyce and Maya have built an American institution that produces some of the most intensely beautiful-and useful- surfacing material available to architects and designers across the world.

For more information on the Maya Romanoff products, please contact us.

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Watch out you are stepping into the adventure zone! Halloween is around the corner indeed and if you are looking for the cute or the wild, there are some awesome ideas promising lots of fun!
Leopard leotards, exotic stripes, feathery tutus, spotted shoes, furry ears and tales, are your one way ticket for an unforgettable Halloween party for all ages!
Enjoy!

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When clients ask me for a quick makeover of a room, I love guiding them to Thibaut wall-coverings and fabrics. Thibaut designs are so fresh and are offered in so many colors and textures that they can always be the answer to a room’s rejuvenation.

Established in 1886, Thibaut is the nation’s oldest continuously operating wallpaper firm. Known for a fresh, inspiring color palette with classic style, Thibaut offers unsurpassed quality and design in styles ranging from historic reproductions, toile, and chinoiserie to tropical and novelty patterns. With an insightful knowledge of trends and what homeowners want, Thibaut consistently delivers uniquely designed collections, supported by excellent service.

In the picture above, we see the Tiger wallpaper and fabric pattern from the Pagoda Collection. And although I usually don’t use the same pattern from head to toe in a room, this is the Thibaut unique style and character that everybody loves!
Right beneath, a room collage to get a small taste of the  many ways that Thibaut can enhance a room.
For more information, samples and prices on Thibaut products please contact us.

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Fabricut is introducing their new faux leather collection with -I have to say- a remarkable selection of colors and textures! Faux-textured leather, this new trend in the upholstery market, is really taking off due to its lower cost comparing to true leather and the amazing variety of colors and textures. The Croco and Snake skins presented in different scale and pattern variations are the most popular in demand.
Faux leathers are well known for their high durability, (many patterns exceed 100,000 double rubs) and for their easy maintenance and cleanability. Many of them have very high UV and mildew resistance and they are suitable for outdoor use, automobiles, RVs and marine use. For information and samples contact us.
Let faux furnish the future!

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A classic two drawer cocktail table from outside, an adventurous hideaway from inside, this cocktail table by Lexington Furniture will cover your living room’s need for storage in  great style. A hand-painted Zebra stripe inside the drawer gives the Greenport Cocktail Table a hidden wild streak.
The design is available in either the 800 Shell or 801 Midnight finish.
Dimensions: 40¼W x 20H x 40¼D in.
For more information on finishes and shipping costs, please contact us.

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Hayley,  previously a marketing manager working in disability services for 18 years, is a mother of two and a quite  talented cake decorator! She never had any training in cake decorating and is totally self taught. She started making her own kids cakes 4 years ago. Slowly she progressed to family & friends. Then recently due to popular demand, she started making cakes, cupcakes & cupcake toppers locally in Karratha.
Currently, Hayley supplies several cupcake business around Australia with her individually designed and hand made cupcake toppers. On top, we see her yummy looking safari theme cup cakes topped with leopard, zebra and tiger print fondant. On the bottom,  a stylish shoe and purse collection in leopard and zebra print.

Hayley I think your cupcakes are wildly fashionable and you have a great future as a cake designer!

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Full of texture and pattern that brings life to any room, Animal Print chairs can be used in any room without a doubt. Whether occasional or lounge, club or dining, animal print upholstery gives character and style!
The selection and variety of colors, animal prints and textures is huge. Large or small scale leopard prints, giraffe and zebra print are the most popular.
If you need help finding any type of animal print upholstery fabric or ideas about chairs, please contact us.

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I had so much fun this summer visiting N.York with my family! My camera was constantly on capturing happy moments, and of course -who could guess- animal prints in action!
New York streets are full of Animal Prints. Madison Av, Rockefeller’s, Times Sq,  Subway, Broadway, 5th Av.  Surely New Yorkers can appreciate how much fun animal prints can be…

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Today’s date, the triple nine, -for many people very significant-inspired me to point out the nine “must have” animal prints:

1. Zebra Print Open Tote Bag
2. Leopard Print Cashmere throw
3. Cow Print Belt
4. Cavalli Zebra Print Earrings
5. Leopard Print Clogs
6. Giraffe Rolling Tote Bagg
7. Leopard Print Velvet Jacket
8. Giraffe Print Toss Pillow
9. Leopard Print Umbrella

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I am so thrilled to learn that Vanguard Furniture just introduced a new line of Upholstered mirrors  for this season! Upholstered mirrors can be offered in different sizes and shapes, with the fabric or leather of your choice, and a selection of nail trim finishes. Above we see a square clover mirror in Zebra print, with Zebrino Onyx Leather and Standard #9 Nail application in Platinum finish.

“I don’t know about the fairest, but definitely the wildest!”

Available sizes are round, square, oval or rectangular.
For more information on the mirrors and upholstery samples, please contact us.

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When it comes to window treatments, hardware is the jewelry of the outfit, the fine detail that outlines the style of the treatment.
Brimar, a family-owned company since 1986-, offers the special details that lead to one-of-a-kind designs in hardware and textiles by providing exclusive inventive designs suitable for residential or commercial use.

We stumbled on this exquisite Tortoise shell finial from the Manhattan collection.
Manhattan collection, presents original modern hardware, epitomizing the long lines and slender form of urban architecture. The collection offers a new breed of drapery rod unusually flat and narrow, contoured C-rings that glide effortlessly and slim finials in a melange of savvy surfaces. And although the Tortoise shell is our element, I should say that all of them are quite beautiful!
For more information on hardware parts, dimensions and prices, please contact us.

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Can you imagine a more idyllic setting than a coral stone home surrounded by exotic tropical gardens and the emerald green Caribbean as your back yard?  Oscar de la Renta furniture collection by Century, features a mélange of mahogany and Hularo® reflecting an attitude of relaxed island living. Based on Mr. de la Renta’s own designs as well as adaptations of extraordinary pieces collected over the past 40 years, his leisure furnishings, like his clothing, represent great taste, refinement and elegance for the outdoor or indoor room.

This striking Oscar de la Renta Leopard bombe chest can turn any room to a sophisticate showcase. Its voluptuous ebb & flow curves, swelling serpentine legs and scalloped apronare pulled directly from the 18th century.Yet the slightly abstract leopard finish—fierce black and bronze spots hand-painted on a tawny background—bring it roaring into the 21st.
Ideal for a foyer, hall, living room or master bedroom as an accent piece. It can even be transformed to a bathroom vanity for an exceptional signature look.
Two drawers.
Size: 42″W X20″D X36.25H
To purchase or more information, please contact us.
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A 70 year old commitment to elegance Scalamandre, is one of the world’s most prestigious fabric houses worldwide.
This company has supplied The White House with fabrics and their products have been used for the reproduction and restoration of historic textiles and patterns found in America and Europe.
Known for their silks, damasks and velvets, Scalamandre has expanded their line to include contemporary fabrics, trimmings and wallpapers including new toiles, outdoor fabrics, florals, animal prints and geometrics.
Scalamandre textiles are often featured in the leading interior design projects and magazines, offering an array of choices for the most discriminating consumer.

For more information on Scalamandre Textiles, please contact us.
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Put this dynamite Cow Print cocktail ottoman in front of a fireplace, in a lobby or in the center of a living/family room if you need a piece to create an ‘anchor’ in your space.
This beautiful cowhide ottoman can be used as an extra seating piece or can be transformed to a cocktail piece with a use of a tray. Great for lake and lodge decor or for introducing a lively texture to any traditional or contemporary room.
The Cow Print ottoman is developed by one of America’s premier manufacturers that offers quality leather furniture at affordable prices. Each piece is meticulously hand-crafted by leading furniture producers using the most exquisite leathers in the world. Matching chair and ottoman available

Cover Options: Dark brindle hide with Calcutta leather fringe and Brindisi Snake Print border
Leather Characteristics:   aniline
Overall Dimensions:    40″ DIAMETER x H 18″
For more information contact us via e-mail or call 314-964-4240X30.
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I was trilled to see that in Oprah magazine the article “Dress Your Age! 5 Trends That Work for Everyone” was pointing out the way to Animal Prints!
“A leopard pattern runs wild in matched separates or is tamed with basic black.” Isn’t that true?

Whether you’re 20-something or 50-plus, be confident wearing animal prints for a tasteful and stylish look. For instance you can try this relaxed-fit airy animal print silk georgette tunic for an elegant yet simple appearance, by Spiegel. I love the outline of the jewel-embellished V-neck and the slight flared sleeves.

Buy Now Animal Print Silk Tunic

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The weather is still good, and if you didn’t have a chance to get your favorite sandals, now is the time. Some great deals are out there.
Select your Animal Print favorite style in great cool prices and enjoy the biggest Summer Sale Sandals!

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How far can Animal Prints go? Obviously pretty far! Since you can see the trend going on wheels in different sizes, styles and artistic animal print designs.
If you are just bored from the plain white, or the silver metallic just looks too blah for you, here is your solution.
From top to bottom:
REVA in Tiger Print and Leopard Print By GreenAer
VOLVO C30 Zebra Print By Cyrille Lefranc
PORSCHE  Animal print combo By Cunaldo
and the cute Leopard print RV By Cynical Pink, because “Home is where the heart is…”

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“New York interior designer Eric Cohler, creates interior designs that infuse traditional forms with the unexpected. Considered one of the country’s leading designers, industry magazine editors have dubbed Cohler the “Mixmaster” for his use of contemporary materials, which, juxtaposed with classical elements, give his interiors a jolt of unusual color and texture, as well as great comfort.”

Cooperating with LEE JOFA, Eric uses his unique color sense to create the “Eric Kohler collection” – a refreshing course of beautiful and vibrant textiles.
In this colorful collection, Eric presents an eclectic mix of provocative hues of contemporary art with Old World shades of grey, caramel, and saddle brown.
In the picture above the Lee Jofa Zebra print kidney pillow in Plum/Olive is definitely one of the collection’s winners!
For more information about LEE JOFA fabrics please contact us at info@animalprintessentials.com or call 314-965-4240×30

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Let the adventure begin right on your patio or sunroom with stunning textured tabletops by Lane Venture’s Weathermaster Synthetic Wicker collection!
These wicker tables are made with Fabri-glass, an alternative tabletop made specifically for the outdoors. Fabri-glass is an excellent, high-end European quality composite fabric applied to tempered glass and can be used with captured rim tables. The ‘fabric’ is made by a unique vacuum embossing process that creates authentic texture and consistent color. It has superior resistances to UV rays (4500hours), oil and dirt.
Choose an exotic surface from four textures:  Brown Crocodile, Umber Rattlesnake, Tan Lizard and Black Lizard. As well, the wicker collection comes in a number of table sizes.
For more information and prices, please contact us at info@animalprintessentials.com or call Maria at 314-965-4240 x30.

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My 15-year-old daughter, Natalia, is quite a creative force. The way she produces lovely
pieces of art one after the other is awe-inspiring.

Her last inspiration was to transform an ordinary pair of black rain boots purchased at
Walmart’s into art in motion! She painted the inside of one boot the same as the outside
of the other. That way when someone is viewing them from one side they will see the
same matching pattern—vivid Zebra stripe prints—striding along the pavement.
From the opposite side the boots come off as a wildly colorful smorgasbord of peace,
love, and swirls. Definite hippie-era cool.
Quite ingenious don’t you think?

If you have any ideas or similar projects done, please feel free to share them with us at info@animalprintessentials.com

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Amy, is a decorative artist and has over 16 years of experience painting in some type of
medium. She began her love for interior painting with stenciling with the use of Folk Art
Paint. She did that technique for several years and even painted for a few people in their
homes. About 6 years ago she became interested in giving freehand painting a try and she
began the journey of teaching herself the Donna Dewberry’s “One Stroke Technique”.

Amy, loves creating custom painted glassware and hand painted canvases.  Her glasses
can be safely used for food by being painted on the reverse side. The paint used is acrylic
enamel and is non-toxic, but it is not food safe.
The plastic plates can be disposed of or may hand wash them and reuse. The glass plates
are baked to set the paint. They are dish washer safe if placed on the top shelf, however
hand washing is recommended to preserve the design.

Amy, offers her services through her website paintedhouseandmore but she also loves
adding a splash of color to people’s home. Her specialty is in decorative painted borders.
Most of her products can be personalized and the design and colors can be altered to fit
her client’s needs.
I love your Animal Print glasses Amy! Cheers!

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Summer’s in full swing, are you? Are your luscious lines adorned by a sleek animal print swimsuit? If not, check your wardrobe. That barely used animal print swimsuit is just itching to be worn. Many of you may be reluctant to put it on (or go out and buy one), but an animal print can flatter even if you’re out of shape.

Animal print swimwear are a fashion for all seasons. Their handsome timeless look never seems to go out of style. You rarely see them in department stores or even in boutiques, but you can find them, particularly through the web.

Animal print bathing suits can be found in most other suit styles that you are acquainted with, but the difference is that with animal prints, the fabric usually upstages the cut. Swimsuits usually are in leopard and zebra prints, sometimes snake skin prints. Natural neutral colors predominate, the colors and tones of the real animals themselves in all their own glory.
Rather than clashing with skin tones, the way many more traditional colors do, these natural hues and animal patterns enhance the beauty of a woman’s skin tone, no matter what its color.
Whether you are tanned or sun-shy, the prints still make a statement.
And don’t worry, they go well with every body type: the not-so-hot bods can keep the bulges at bay with their camouflaging prints, while skinnier girls get an edgier look with them as opposed to plain Jane solid color swimsuits.

But the cut can enhance! Animal print swimsuits can be cut simply, allowing the pattern itself to draw the attention, or they can be cut in daring plunge styles created to accentuate the beauty of a woman’s body. Though animal prints are quite provocative, whether in a or not, revealing cut they make a larger statement about feminine beauty itself.

Why get stuck wearing what everybody else is in when hitting the beach?  (Be free and fearless. Let your curvacious self out.) Get bolder, edgier and stunning with animal print swimsuits each year!

Spiegel Animal Print Tankini Swimwear

An exotic Leopard-Zebra pattern combo this Animal Print Tankini will be your favorite swimsuit! With a great coverage, this safari look tankini is the perfect flattering and
comfortable two piece swimwear whether you relax, swim or play by the pool or at the beach.

Buy Now ON SALE Animal Print Tankini

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“You might think he loves you for your money
But I know what he really loves you for
It’s your brand new leopard-skin pill-box hat.”
Leopard-Skin Pill-Box Hat – lyrics by Bob Dylan

In his 1966 album Blond on Blond, Bob Dylan poked fun at a female fashion victim who
wears a leopard skin pillbox hat. A style of hat made famous by Jacqueline Kennedy in
the early-to-mid sixties. Pillbox hats were doomed for extinction, but the upscale image of leopard skin design is still a king in today’s high-fashion jungle.
Shoppers hunting for that spotted wild cat look they usually call it
Leopard print. And they’re not far off. Leopards have one of the most diversified patterns
of all the Old World cats. Yet leopard print is not the only spotted wild animal pattern.

Here are some animal tips to distinguish your favorite Leopard Print:

* The True Leopard has a paw-like spot pattern, that looks like bloomed roses, named
rosettes. Its head and legs have solid black spots and the belly is usually white.
Leopards in eastern Africa have more circular rosettes, while their southern African
counterparts have square rosettes.
* The Clouded Leopard is smaller in size, and has spots that look like clouds. Its dark
markings are bigger and irregular, and somewhat resemble those of a large python.
* The Snow Leopard has similar rosettes, yet its clusters appear less well defined and
are more widely spaced apart. Its fur is almost grey with brownish-yellow tinges on its
flanks and white fur on its belly, chest and chin.
* The Jaguar has a distinctive dot in the center of its  rosettes. But in both the leopard and
the jaguar a recessive gene, called melanism, often creates a totally
black-colored cat that people identify as a black panther.
* The Cheetah has no rosettes, but solid black spots or tear drops, sort of imperfect
polka-dots that run all over its body.
* The Ocelot, smaller in size, has yellow-mahogany brown fur with black doughnut-shaped
and bar-shaped spots covering its body.

Left to right: 1. “Sand”-colored Leopard 2. Golden-brown Leopard
3. Cloud Leopard, Snow Leopard.

Left to right: 1.Cheetah 2. Jaguar 3. Melanistic Leopard or Panther 4. Ocelot

Now, which of these patterns best describe the Leopard in you?

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I recall first getting turned on to mosaic tile when I traveled to Europe.
Glass mosaic can transform any wall or floor by infusing an almost infinite variety of color
and texture. Glass mosaic tiles can create patterns with tones in a palette of plain colors
as well as shading blends, giving the designer a myriad of ways to personalize any interior
and exterior project.

Bisazza, an italian mosaic company, exhibits exquisite tile designs ranging from new
and exotic to classic and timeless. And as Animal print has been a force in interior design
lately,  Bisazza mosaics offer animal print tile patterns, for a fashionable, modern touch to
interior and exterior design.
Mosaic tile featured in their Collection can be used in the bathroom, kitchen, swimming
pool, flooring, commercial design and much more.

Elegant and vibrant Giraffa, Zebra and Leopard Mosaics designed by Carlo Dal Bianco, are
classic decorative pieces and can make a wall seem like a natural hide.

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Among my fondest memories of my Dad is one from when I was 3-4 years old.
Each evening he would read me a story out of the 1001 Nights (The Arabian Nights).
I’d remain completely still as I listened to every detail of these exotic tales of
faraway lands. The mystery, the magic, the tigers and wild animals totally fascinated
me. All I could wish for was to be able to have one real glimpse of these enchantments!

The real jewel, though, from our bedtime stories was Dad’s sharing of himself. This was
one of those times when I knew I had him all to myself.
So many other fine qualities of his also are still with me: his extreme generosity,
open-heartedness, hard work, and joy and passion for seemingly everything in life.
I am so grateful for his example of character strength.

As the Father’s Day nears, I honor his presence and every father’s presence, and for
all the courage, support and guidance they give.
Happy Father’s Day to you all!

Great gift ideas for Dad:

Bey Berk  Brown Croco Leather Letter Desk Tray With Cover

Dress dad’s desk with this handsome brown leather tray in crocodile print. This brown croco leather letter tray with cover by Bey-Berk is a wonderful desk accessory as well as an excellent  gift. A great desk organizer that can hold all your letters in its tray like shape. The letter tray is made of high quality leather in croco finish and has a cover to maintain your privacy.
Buy Now Leather Letter Tray

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   Lynda Moseley has been a tinkerer and crafter for most of her 50 years, as well as decades as a full-time real estate paralegal and a professional genealogist.

“My mother always encouraged her children to be self-sufficient, and we learned early how to make things that we wanted.” Lynda has designed jewelry since high school, and two years ago she discovered polymer clay as a medium for her jewelry design. “It quickly became an obsession. Polymer clay is a remarkable medium.
The design possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination. I use it to create polymer clay pendants and brooches, which I enhance with semi-precious gemstones and metals. While I struggle with some of the traditional techniques used by polymer clay artists, I seem to have found my voice in the medium with my image transfers. I developed and am still perfecting a method of using multiple layers of images and embossing powders to achieve depth and texture; and I am known for my distinctive, distressed, faux vintage finishes.”

Lynda loves animal prints and she tries to use them in her designs as much as possible.  “My favorite is Zebra”, and she is currently working on a series of brooches and pendants using Zebra, Tiger and Leopard prints as a base for the designs.  She pairs the animal prints with motifs and birds and butterflies and she is pleased with how well theay have been received. She lives in the beautiful low country of South Carolina, near Beaufort and
she is proud to be the 9th generation of the first Huguenot settlers in 1688.

I just love your art Lynda!

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   Susan Stevens is a jewelry designer and she creates her jewelry at home, in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, in Canada. Her designs are inspired from nature, the way a vine grows, or the colors of fall, a vacation on the coast, a walk in the woods, a song, fashion, interior design, the colors of pebbles on a beach… so much beauty and many interesting things surround us, that it is easy to be inspired.
Her art ranges from very whimsical to elegant and sophisticated; her products are all original
and one of a kind.
“I enjoy creating my jewelry with wonderful artisan glass lamp work beads, gem stones, Venetian glass, Swarovski crystals, and precious metals. I love to incorporate wonderful vintage, Swarovski crystals and other vintage beads into my designs to add some retro glamor and to create a special piece that holds a tiny bit of history from a bygone era.
Every single necklace and bracelet that I design is named after a song, so perhaps you will find your special song made into a treasured piece of jewelry!”

Very inspiring Susan, I love the Cheetah bracelet!

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Lisa Holloway, graciously submitted a picture that is worth of a thousand words!
Lisa, is a professional photographer located in northwestern Arizona, specializing in custom newborn, children, and family portraiture.
Her *1st* job is as a stay at home mother to 7 wonderful children, with their 8th due to make her arrival this summer.
“Photography has been a wonderful creative outlet for me and allows me to share a bit of myself and how I see the world with others.
I’m always on the lookout for things to add that special touch to my work.”

What could be more fun than a precious newborn boy taking his afternoon siesta on a Zebra Print ottoman?

Happy Mother’s Day Lisa!

For more Lisa’s Photography, you can visit her web site:
http://www.ljhollowayphotography.com

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas: Give Mom what she loves!

Mom and Baby: Giraffe’s First Kiss!

Who can’t appreciate Mom’s first kiss?
Animals’ ability to connect emotionally with each other — and in turn, with us — is tenderly expressed in Ron D’Raine’s “Giraffe, First Kiss.”
In nuanced sepia tones that equate to the warmth of unconditional love, D’Raine’s image poignantly communicates the bond between mother and child. The photo exudes endearing tenderness that will provide comfort anywhere it’s displayed. What a great gift!

Buy Now Giraffe Print “First Kiss”

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When I “think pink”, I choose to paint cheerful mental pictures made out of baby lips,
rosy flowers, my kitty’s nose, cute bunny’s ears and healthy children’s cheeks…
Pink, the hallmark color of womanhood, spells “happy” and is also Spring’s favorite outfit for blooming trees, gardens and formal or informal flower arrangements everywhere around the earth.
One of my favorites, the Leopard Orchid, fascinates me with its variations of color and pattern, as well its delicacy and finesse. Orchids generally by name inspire visions of wondrous beauty in jungles, a beauty unattainable by any but the wealthiest or the most adventurous. Yet the orchid, far from being rare, is numerous, varied and virtually ubiquitous. There are at least 25,000 species, growing in every continent and in nearly every climate.
Despite their fragility, orchids are relatively long lived and easy to care for; they give an aura of exoticism, though they are easy to find and are not more expensive than other house plants.
Here is a picture of a gorgeous Leopard Prince Orchid by Angie Doyle:

In interior design, we find Pink in sumptuous fabrics, painted furniture and accessories.
We introduce pink any time we want to give a “candy” flavor to the room.
On walls, pale pinks cast a soft rosy glow that reflects both artificial and natural light, and are ideal for flattering people and objects. In more formal settings, pink creates a delicate backdrop that brings out richness of dark wood furniture pieces.

Leopard Wallet In Ombre Pink

For the playful, artistic woman this Leopard wallet in ombre pink, is the best accessory ever owned.
Cute and colorful, it will give you room for all your necessities.
Size: 4″ x 7″ x 0.5″
Material: PVC
* Black faux leather interior
* Multiple card holders and clear id pocket
* Bill sleeve and zip change pocket
* Snap closure
By Amici Accessories ON SALE: $20.00

Buy Now Leopard Pink Wallet

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Andreas Schreyer, is a designer who lives in Hamburg, Germany. He got connected with photography during his studies but turned to focus on other subjects and media.
“I am doing photos for fun, taking snapshots to help me relax from work.”
Most of the time, Andreas enjoys working on Photoshop. His jobs sometime require the documents to be built in a way that he can easily exchange parts of the design pretty fast without having to waste hours.
Here, he submited this masterful picture with animal print eggs and he’s willing to share the how’s.

If you are interested on how to create this card, please contact us at
info@animalprintessentials.com, and we will send you the zip file with step by step slide shows and all instructions.

Thank you Andreas! Happy Easter!

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1. Warm palatable colors. Reds and pinks stimulate conversation and open the appetite, yellow and spices promote good mood and cheerfulness. If you want a richer effect than plain paint, the industry offers many wall covering solutions, faux paintings for more texture, and beautiful wallpapers for a desirable atmosphere.

2. A tasty rug. Although today many homeowners choose carpet for the entire house for budget reasons, a good rug for the dining room is a great investment and will create an anchor in the room. Make sure that your rug is bigger than the size of the table and the chairs together and will allow about 20” more rug surface when chairs are completed drawn to the table.

3. Comfortable seating. Nothing beats a chair you can relax in while enjoying dinner and talking to your guests. Depending on the size of your chairs, allow a 24” clearance from the surrounding walls or other furniture.

4. Adjustable seating. Owning a table that offers more than one size dimension is always ideal. When you buy your dining room chairs invest in an extra pair– two more than the regular number around the smallest size of your table. Then when you don’t entertain, you can place them on either side of the buffet or server if the room permits, or use them around the house as  occasional chairs.

5. Flexible lighting. Different occasions require different lighting. Give yourself the option to dim the chandelier if you need to, or use a set of luminaries or wall sconces for warmer ambient  lighting. If your chandelier is too bright add some adaptable shades to cover the candles. They cut the glare significantly.

6. Furniture for storage, serving and display. Depending on your room allowance invest in at least one piece of storage, like a buffet or china cabinet and one place for serving. Serving surfaces are very handy and will allow you a “buffet” type of dining when you entertain.

7. Wall art and mirror. Wall art is a must for every dining room outfit. It adds color and can give the “feel” of the room. Mirrors, as we all know, add dimension and enlarge any room. In the dining room, mirrors will reflect the existing light.

8. Beautiful linens and place-settings. The tabletop design sets the mood of the dining. Setting a table is an art on its own and can create the whole atmosphere or theme. What designer doesn’t love to present a table dressed up for royalty!

9. Soft window treatments. Although shutters and shades will give you lots of privacy, draperies are very important for the completion of the room. Whether you have a bay or individual windows there are numerous window treatment designs that can compliment the room. Draperies add softness and color and will outline the style and the formality of the room.

10. Candles and flowers. Add a warm, soft touch with candles, or inject some life with a beautiful bunch of flowers. Avoid plastic flowers and artificial greenery. Although they are very popular, they take away from a sense of beauty and class.

Zebra Print Slipcover for Parsons Armless Chair

Give a new fresh look to your plain parsons chairs!
Couture style animal print slipcover with the look and fit of custom upholstery, made exclusively for our collection of customizable furniture.
Slipcover fits our Parsons armless chair that can be purchased separately.
Fits precisely and snugly with tailored edges and Velcro attachments.
Buy Now Zebra Print Slipcover

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One of my favorite designers and arguably the most stunning hand-blown glass artist
of our day is Dale Chihuly.
Chihuly, interior designer, architect, weaver, painter and glass artist, is certainly a force
in contemporary glass art. For more than four decades he has fascinated art lovers and
audiences around the world with his beyond expectation extraordinary art forms and
sculptures.
In the words of Gary Libby, of the Museum of Arts & Sciences in Daytona Beach, Florida
“his meticulously crafted vessels and large free-form sculptures have brought blown
and shaped glass to a preeminent position in the pantheon of international avant-garde
art forms. Known for his unusual and exuberant manipulations of Venetian glass
techniques wedded to the exotic and seductive qualities of the shapes and forms of
ancient glass, Chihuly continues to push the limits of this most beautiful and fragile of
mediums into abstract and non-objective realms where color, pattern, line and volume
create a new quintessential synthesis born out of earth, air, fire, and water, the four
classical elements of the material world.
With the baskets collection, Chihuly completely freed the glass blowing technique
from all restrictions of tailored shapes, letting glass follow its natural tendency to respond
to gravity. His inspiration came after seeing a beautiful collection of Indian baskets at the
Washington State Historical Society. He translated the graceful, pure, and sheer curved
forms of different shapes and colors in the basket weaving into his passion of glass blowing.

Up above, in the main picture of the video, we show one of the “Baskets”, the breathtaking Leopard Spot Basket Set with Yellow Lip Wraps, made in 1992.

Fire By Dale Chihuly (Hardcover- Illustrated)

This is a stunning portfolio of glass artist Dale Chihuly’s awesome creations, including his
critically acclaimed Baskets, Seaforms, Chandeliers and Towers.
Each of ten chapters features Chihuly’s most popular series of works and includes a dynamic
pictorial chronology documenting the development and history of the creations.

Buy Now Fire by Dale Cihuly Book

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 Interior designer Hilary Beyer transformed this small limited space into a cozy and warm hideaway. Her client needed a spot to unwind from his busy day, just sit, read a book, and take care of the daily mail and paperwork. Hilary, starting with
this beatiful antique Biedermeir secretary desk, used warm earthy colors and various textures to create the desired results.

A comfortable black leather lounge chair with a curvy inviting silhouette together with the straight clean lines of the desk’s parson chair created functionality and comfort.
The unusual tree trunk metal base end table, the built-in shelves with the client’s favorite collectibles, the soft simple window treatment and the old map art on the wall, gave the room a multidimensional look. The final touch was the leopard pony hide area rug, emphasising texture and artistic design. “I like using animal prints as an accent, they add texture and style to any room.
I prefer using them as rugs and carpets in libraries, home offices and on stairs for a more natural, masculine and sophisticated look.”

Hilary has designed interiors for 28 years, 19 in St. Francisco and nine in St Louis and she is based out of Frank Patton Interiors.

Leopard Print Design Area Rug

Get a splash of “wild” on the floor that adds instantly dimension and color.
Add a natural ambience look and a classic elegant texture.

Buy Now ON SALE Leopard Area Rug

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My new discovery, a breathtaking and really cutting edge design crocodile print counter top wash basin collection presented by Arch Expo, can please the most demanding and style conscious buyer.
ArchiExpo is the permanent virtual exhibition, connecting manufacturers and buyers in 5 languages, around the world. With 1.5 million visitors a month sourcing from over 20,000 high-standard architectural products, it is the biggest online specialized show.

“This is an unconventional and refined idea with a strong contemporary personality and a look that is strikingly attractive, representing an innovative interpretation of decoration coupled with the exclusivity of a unique one-off product: JUNGLE, in fact, is the perfect example of a new customized design approach for the bathroom, which sets out to amaze with an exuberant elegance and a slant that is highly spectacular.

An haute-couture collection that is fruit of a meticulous activity of experimentation and exclusive technology and which derives from a research into the expressive potentiality of ceramic material and its visual and tactile perception. For JUNGLE, Ceramica Cielo has chosen unusual materials for this category of products, such as precious python and crocodile skins which, thanks to an exclusive manufacturing technique, mould and meld into the ceramic to produce an end result in which visual perception succeeds in perfectly conveying the material and tactile effect typical of these skins.
A unique effect that would have been quite impossible without the use of special hand-crafted manufacturing processes.”

For image details, price quote and documentation requests, or information where to buy, contact Archi Expo

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Blue is the color that talks to my
heart. I was born and raised in Greece, and it seems as if blue itself is native
to that land. Blue is everywhere. The sea is filled with it the sky is spread
with it–and not your typical deep blue but a clear, rich, eternal blue
that speaks to the soul. I don’t know if you find that anywhere else.

Blue teams well with white – most noticeably on the Greek flag,
but equally at home in the charming domiciles found on nearly every
Greek island. Who can forget those brilliant blue domes rising above
white-washed walls and looking out over the Aegean Sea!

The universal popularity of blue refreshes both art and
architecture: Danish tiles, French toiles, Spanish mosaics,
Mexican doors, New England porches, Greek domes, Egyptian pottery,
and English China, are just a few of the diverse applications with blue.
Blue is in the cool range on the color wheel and gives a sense
of relaxation and calmness wherever it’s applied. As a wall color for
bedrooms and bathrooms it’s considered refreshing and soothing at
the same time. In textiles we see blue freely used in formal velvets and
damasks,and in fresh cottons and linens that can either be a bold or
pastel elegance. Wallcoverings have many great shades of blue too,
and, depending on the style, speak different languages and eras of
history.

Animal Prints are following right behind by infusing blue tones
into textures, patterns, and products. While researching Animal Prints
in cool shades, I was surprised at the variety of textures and the whimsy
of patterns as well as the selection of materials available. In upholstery,
chenille is predominant and most desired for its softness and endurance.
In linens and cottons  we see a big variety of scale, from tiny cheetah
and croco prints up to large giraffe spots and zebra stripes.
So feel free to throw a splash of color wherever you need and still use
your animal print favorites. In fact, you can play with any hue of the color
wheel using blues.

Luciano Padovan Croco-embossed Leather Sandals

Luciano Padovan is a Milan based Italian designer that likes to create chick and
stylish products.
As a designer, Luciano is capable to always offer shoes and handbags with a strong
fashion identity in line with times, as well as superb quality and workmanship.
He likes to make the person who’s wearing his creations be a center of the attention
in any event.

These striking and bright blue sandals are glamorously chic and sensually vamp.
Embellished by a front ring with sparkling crystals, they are made in crocodile-
embossed leather and feature a rounded toe and a high heel for a flattering Italian
diva-style look.
BUY NOW Blue Croco Embossed Leather Sandals

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 Wendy Wagener likes to create handcrafted prints, books, cards, and other stationery products for sale. Many of her items include recycled materials. She often uses re-purposed wallpaper books, wrapping paper, and text from junk mail. 
And of course she loves creating works with animal prints and textures!
Wendy started Cathartic Slant a couple of years ago as a way to show and sell her many creations. She works from her home studio in Beavercreek (Dayton), Ohio. You can find Wendy’s products in her stores on ETSY and Shop Handmade.  She welcomes questions about her art, and she is happy to provide more information about her materials.
Wendy’s ETSY store: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5222062

Nice work Wendy, thank you!

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Happy Valentine’s Day From Animal Print Essentials!
This Valentine’s Day:
Remember You Are LOVE and you don’t need Valentine’s Day to know that.
We welcome you to enjoy …
The YOU ARE LOVE movie

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Alicia was kind enough to submit her special Leopard-Zebra sour cream dessert for a roaring finale of any meal!
Alicia works full time in an insurance agency and she has just started learning to decorate cakes in the past couple of years.
She is hoping to one day decorate cakes full time, doing what she truly loves!
For the moment, she shares her beautiful cakes with family and friends.
To see more of Alicia’s decorative cakes, you can visit her blog:
www.myspace.com/confectiontemptation

Here are her tips for the Leopard base, Zebra top cake:
“This cake is made with a 2″ – 6″ and 2 – 10″ round White Almond sour cream cakes.
It is iced and filled with butter cream.  The fondant is homemade and is tinted to match the invitation.
All the Zebra stripes are cut randomly with a pizza cutter and the Leopard spots are made by flattening oblong balls of fondant.  I used satin ribbon for the trim.”

Thank you Alicia and let us know when you need some cake testers!

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As every other mother, I can easily brag about my 15-year-old daughter Natalia’s Art achievements. She is growing into a wonderful artist.
Here is her last pencil drawing of Audrey Hupburn that she just finished in her Art class.
And according to Natalia,”the leopard part was the most difficult!”

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Love is a canvas furnished by Nature and embroidered by imagination. 
~Voltaire
What could be more natural than to give a gift straight from the heart?

For some heart-to-heart ideas watch this short video:

Sterling Silver Onyx Bead Bracelet w/ Zebra Heart

Follow your heart with this zebra heart and onyx bead bracelet
by David Sigal.
A bold accent in versatile black and silver, it highlights a shiny
sterling silver puff heart with a black enamel zebra stripe pattern,
set among sparkling faceted rounds of glossy black onyx.
The beads are strung on stretch cord, for an easy
slip-over-the-wrist fit.
Buy Now Zebra Heart Bracelet ON SALE $39.00

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Betsey Johnson Heart-Shaped Leopard Bracelet

Adorable heart-shaped leopard print with clear resin coating and
ornate goldtone border.
Goldtone metal stretch-link bracelet fits easily on your wrist.
Heart-shaped charm with Betsey Johnson logo drops 1-1/2 inches;
diameter measures 2-1/2″
Offered for $40 Buy Now Leopard Heart Bracelet

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St Valentine’s Day is almost around the corner, and if you are seeking new ideas for something delicious and absolutely unique, we offer this exotic Zebra ChocolateCake recipe by C.J. Hartsock, that nobody will be able to resist!

C.J. is a mother of four son’s ranging in age from 19 – 6. She lives in Corona CA and she works full time as an Educational interpreter – American Sign Language. C.J. has been passionate about cake decorating for almost 2 years now.
Her first baking contest for the Corona Lemon Festival not only granted her best decorated cake, but also best in show. She also entered the San Diego Cake Competition and she won third place for its category with her “Angry Leprechaun”.
This year she is entering three new designs for the San Diego contest.
Good luck C.J, we know you can make it!

Most people are more accustomed to eating the box cakes instead of the made-from-scratch variety, which is what I do.  (INSIDER TIP – double the oil) The layers of black filling are actually chocolate ganache frosting, which is super simple: melted chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream.  If you want the ratio’s I can give you that.
In the picture I made a 2 layer cake, and torted the layers (cut in half). When the ganache is added, it goes between the one cake layer, between the two cakes, and then between the top cake layer.  That is why the photo looks like it has 4 layers of cake and three layers of filling.

I make my own Marshmallow fondant: a bag of melted marshmallows, 3T water, and powdered sugar in an electric mixer to make the marshmallows stiff.  Let it ‘rest’ overnight and roll out on a powdered sugar surface.  The zebra strips are made with chocolate molding, melted chocolate and Karo syrup. I roll out the chocolate, and cut it in random strips with a pizza cutter, wet the back with a food paint brush to make the fondant adhere to it.
It is really easy, and the end results look really good.

I don’t know if it is “really easy”, but it looks spectacular and it sounds really delicious! Thank you C.J.

And here is “all the rich delights of chocolate, captured in one volume of decadence”. 300 Best Chocolate Recipes is an outstanding collection of chocolate recipes originally published in two books, 125 Best Chocolate Chip Recipes and 125 Best Chocolate Recipes.
To Buy Now 300 Best Chocolate Chip Recipes

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Every time I use Fabrica wall-to-wall carpet and area rugs in my projects, I am happy knowing that I satisfy my clients for life.
Paul Klein, a carpet specialist that focuses on the high-end residential interiors and representative of Fabrica for 14 years, helps us understand the Fabrica difference:

PREMIUM BRANDED FIBERS- All Fabrica nylon products are manufactured from premium natural luster type 6.6 Nylon.  Type 6.6 nylon possesses exceptional colorfastness and has a higher temperature capability for heat set retention.

YARN TWIST- From a manufacturing standpoint, yarn twist is the most important specification that determines performance in a quality cut-pile carpet.
Simply stated, the tighter the twist, the better the appearance retention.
Fabrica carpets have the highest yarn twists in the industry.

DENSITY- The number of tufts per square inch (determined by stitch rate and machine gauge) plays an important role in creating a beautiful appearance and maintaining pile resiliency.  All carpet looks good new.  How will it look in 2, 3, 5 years?

BECK DYEING- Or piece dyeing, means the carpet is dyed the old fashioned way.
Over 3 hours of deep dye emersion gives greater color uniformity than carpets with high speed production methods which apply dye to the surface of the carpet while moving at a rapid rate.  While lower in cost, it does not produce the quality of the beck dyeing process.

BACKING-  Fabrica offers the finest, most tightly woven backings in the industry, which result in greater dimensional stability.  We utilize pure latex for greater lamination properties. The pure latex also helps create soft, pliable carpet preferred by most carpet installers.

SURFACE SHEARING REFINEMENT- The ultimate detail which separates good from great carpet. The process is to shear irregularities from the surface of the carpeting, much like a mower cuts grass. Some Fabrica products are sheared as many as 20 times to produce the most refined carpet finish in the industry.

SOIL AND STAIN PROTECTION- Fabrica employs only state of the art pressurized foam stain chemistry so you know your investment is protected.

GREEN LABEL PLUS- All Fabrica products are Green Label Plus certified, exceeding the highest indoor air quality standard for low VOC emissions.

ALLERGIES- There is no scientific study linking the rise in allergy and asthma to the use of carpet. Indeed, several studies actually disprove any correlation. Check Carpet-rug.org

This spectacular large scale pattern is reminiscent of Zebra skin and creates the visual impact of woven or hand-tufted products at a fraction of the cost. It provides outstanding performance capabilities and is ideal for either residential or moderate commercial applications. It is available in thirteen natural colors.
For more information contact Maria at info@animalprintessentials.com

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“I want a room warm and vibrant, comfortable and welcoming. This is the place I am going to sit and relax, watch TV, or curl up and read. And when my parents come to visit, I want them to feel at home.”
When my client Kay asked me to help her with her family-room design, I considered all her wants and family needs, and put together a room that had it all. We chose a warm and vibrant color palette, with an exchange of bold and understated details, and a mix of traditional-contemporary lines for a softer look.
The room is anchored with a faux fur square ottoman in tiger print, for multi-purpose use. The soft wheat paint on the wall and the tone-on-tone fret key pattern on the sofa allowed us to let loose with the animal print material, with its quiet-bold stripe effect.
The major color players in the room are the art and the red chinoiserie pair of tufted chairs right across from the art.
And for dad’s chair, when he visits, we used a  classic brown croco leather in white antique finish and wicker back, for adding more texture.
With all these textures, the room feels extremely comfortable and multi-dimensional. And the overall results are very rewarding.

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And out to the streets! Let your feet do the talking.
Animal Print Shoes can walk you right to the heart of the urban beat.

According to Cindy Sutherland,  “shoe and handbag designers have embraced the jungle spirit this season.”
Whether you are in casual leopards, zebra flats, or classy croco heels, you’ll define the mainstream.
And if you want to keep the upbeat for what is IN for the new Spring-Summer season, you can get the news from Barbie Thomas in this article:
Women’s Footwear Trends For Spring- Summer 2009

Zebra Print Sandal Shoes By Jonathan Keyne

Step into the wilds with this beautiful slide sandals in fashionable Zebra print!
Zebra sandal shoes feature an animal printed leather upper with a chain decor across the vamp
and a comfortable mid heel.
Available in Leopard print too. $79.95

Buy Now Zebra Sandal Shoes

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I just couldn’t resist not to post this picture of Lily, 7 months old, absolutely gorgeous and always in style! Lily makes her first baby steps on an animal print rug.
Lily’s mom, Angela Brockmaier, is a successful  Interior Designer, and of course the apple falls under the tree!

Animal Print Area Rug Collection

Exotic, sophisticated and incredibly versatile-animal-print rugs at incredibly tame prices. Perfect in your living room, den, bedroom or dining room, they’ll add excitement to traditional or contemporary decors.
Choose from Leopard, Zebra, Cheetah bordered, or Tiger print patterns.
Buy Now Animal Print Area Rugs

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“Pairing leopard print heals with a pattern shirt spells disaster”, says Jennifer Wasilewski in her article How to Wear Animal Prints.
It’s true that animal prints is not just a trend any more, it is rather a style that we need to understand the do’s and don’ts. In case you are confused about the how-to’s, here are some good tips to keep you roaring in style.

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 Interior designer Steve Toedebusch can transform a 20th century home into a 21st century statement of warmth, style, and comfort. He brings a flair for creating a living space that balances art, openness, and warmth.
One of his recent successes is in Carlyle, a gated community in west St. Louis County.
Steve took on the challenge of updating a home that was full of Pop Art and Expressionist works from Warhol, Stella, Johns and others. In the family room, Steve used “faux leather walls and a Coach leather sofa with animal print pillows to accent the contemporary design of this sophisticated room”.
Steve is a big fan of animal prints. He freely uses them as carpets, wall coverings, and fabrics to effect a contemporary or traditional look, depending on the application. As he puts it, “They always say style”.

Steve Toedebusch has been an interior designer for over 30 years. His background includes Fine Arts and Interior Design. He has worked on commercial and residential projects across the country—many of which have been published and currently accepted for Architectural Digest.
He is based out of Frank Patton Interiors in St. Louis as well as Palm Springs, California.

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Who says time is ugly?
I say, time is beautiful. Circle your wrist with nature and be on time for a great change. Designer watches are just like fashion and each season brings a new selection of gorgeous watches to pick from many styled to go with the latest fashion trends which are also emerging at the same time. Ladies designer watches are like Jewelry with the bracelet and expensive stone engravings and they certainly perform that function besides keeping the time.
Be on time for a Blessed, Peaceful and Happy NEW YEAR!

 

Coco – Gold Plated Croco-style Bracelet Dress Watchby Roberto Cavalli

To Buy Now Roberto Cavalli Croco Watch

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Hello friends,

I took a few days off for the Holidays, it is soooo wonderful, and I am getting back to one of my favorite hobbies: Knitting. Fireplace, a cup of tea and my knitting project, can I ask for more? Knitting is creative, relaxing, full filling and you can make wonderful gifts for yourself and others!
Surfing through the net, I discovered this wonderful site, and guess what, some animal
print designs! I was so excited!
It is an innovative collection of animal prints, including a variety of textile designs-a perfect shift for imaginative knitters that want to move away from traditional designs.
I could find imitation leopard, lion, zebra giraffe, dalmatian and cow skin designs as well as painting effects like sponging, stippling and ragrolling.
I am definitely ready for a fun project. Here is the link: Animal Print Designs

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The true essence of the season is bringing us the message:
“Be still and know I am God!” (Psalm 46:10), one of my favorite quotes of the Bible.
This season, I wish the reign of divine Truth, Life and Love to be established
in all mankind and bring eternal Peace.
I was touched by this “Silent Night” movie and I share it with you all.

P.S. Did you know how our Tiger, Leopard, Lion, Ocelot and other Big Cat friends celebrate Christmas? Check this awesome video to find out: Big Cats Christmas
Happy Holidays!

Warmest,
Maria

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It is almost mid-December and yes, the Holiday spirit is everyware around.
Most decorations are up, and people get busier and busier with events,
responsibilities and preparations for the season.
In Animal Print Essentials, we help making your shopping experience easy
as a breeze; we recently created the UNDER $30 section in our
categories of products, that you can find a host of gift ideas for everybody
and under a budget. So, check this short video, or just click UNDER $30
Happy Holidays, and say it with Animal Prints!

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Melissa Buckley, the main Interior designer of high- end Enclave Bellerive model homes in Ladue*  St Louis, chose the texture of animal prints in her Virginia Great  Room project, one of the historic themed constructions.
Melissa applied a soft ocelot print on the pair of lounge chairs by the window,
beautifully marrying the silk plaid treatment and the oriental rug intricacy
with one touch.
“My palette is made exciting with the use of patterns from nature. The repeated linear
and textural stories are beautiful. My favorites are tortoise, crocodile,coral, giraffe,
lynx, tiger, leopard, and ocelot. says Melissa.
This room has a bold color palette for the walls and the draperies, but the celadon
colored ocelot patterned chenille offers detail, and a surprise in its unatural color.
Almost all of the design schemes I’ve created include a pattern from nature.
It is refreshing to embrace these patterns in new and different colorways, as in this space.”

*Enclave Bellerive has won the “Best in Class” award in the community design category in
the 2007 Brick in Home Building Awards competition.

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Open those trunks and dig down–there may be that forgotten heirloom, grandma’s
‘old-fashioned’ quilt, that’s begging to be displayed somewhere. Textiles are not
immediately recognized as an art form to beautify your walls. It’s all a mindset. Why
shouldn’t batiks, embroidered cloths, hand-painted scarves, and tapestries enrich your
walls. They not only soften a wall but can add a little history along with it.
Chris Robertson here explains how to spuce up our home with Wall tapestry ideas.

I myself framed a square appliqué linen tea-cloth that my Greek grandmother made
when she was engaged. It brings so much texture to my great room, besides the
meaningful nature of its history.
In many cultures over the centuries, people have been putting their stories on pieces
of fabric, usually with strong, bold colors, or in abstract ways, full of inspired strokes.
Rugs themselves can be beautiful and priceless pieces of Art. Our home has two, small,
rectangular wool rugs from Mexico, both from natural dyes, one the feathered
serpent, Queztalcoatl, and the other a vibrant Aztec design.  John Trackeray, gives us
some advice here how to display our oriental rug as a wall hanging.

I once used a breathtaking all-sequins and gold-threaded silk wedding scarf that my
client had buried in a trunk in the basement. “It is stunning and so meaningful, but it
never occurred to me to put it on the wall,” she exclaimed.

In the Textile industry today you can find stunning fabrics usually sold by the yard with
a huge pattern repeat, illustrating whole scenes, or embroidered with beautiful designs
and cutwork, crisp linens and luscious silks, that easily can be stretched or framed as Wall Art.

Besides the plain and simple framing or the stretching of textiles prior to hanging them,
you can gently stitch a tube into the top edge, and pass a metal or wood rod through that
will be attached to the wall with the appropriate hardware. You can also add a lining to
give more weight to it, or some trim and tassels to give a more finished look.

Leopard Wall Tapestry “Safari Floral II” By Krista Sewell

A great addition of texture and color this Leopard wall Tapestry, can be placed in the foyer, over the fireplace,
or it can be paired with the Zebra Wall Tapestry “Safari Floral I” with the Zebra print vase, and be hang next to
each other on a big open wall space.  Buy Now Leopard Wll Tapestry

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From the moment I discovered Roberto Cavalli,
I fell in love with his bold and exotic combinations of design and color.
Cavalli, an internationally known Italian Designer, is synonymous with glam,
rock and passion. All his work exudes passion. Surrounded by art and fashion
all his life, Cavalli started as a textile designer, and slowly expanded into fashion,
and home design. His sensational creations are noted for an exuberant fusion of
color, geometry and flora or fauna.

Cavalli is considered the King of Animal Prints and a master when
it comes to leather, denim and patchwork designs. There is always a
vividness, and an energetic movement in all his work. And surprises.
How about his limited-edition Animal Print Coca-Cola bottle trio that will stop you
in your tracks, seriously.

Cavalli Snake Skin Printed Reversible Silk Stole

This animal print stole will be your favorite animal print accessory in your wardrobe.
Combining the latest trends with versatile styles for a look that is modern, yet timeless, this reversible
snake skin print silk scarf by Roberto Cavalli will transform your outfit from ordinary to classy and
extraordinary!
To Buy Now Cavalli Silk Snake Skin Stole
To Buy Now Cavalli Silk Snake Skin Stole

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There is no doubt that Wallpaper, even the most common wallcovering, can totally change the feel of a room creating varied light and color effects. For a while wallpaper was unpopular, most likely because it gave the impression of a dated look. But today, wallpaper is coming back strong. Tammy Billings in her article Wallpaper Trends

Wallpaper can be an Art of its own, especially when it’s hand-painted–in the form of a mural
or a scene. This takes a skilled hanger to install it and can be expensive.
Generally speaking though, wallpaper is affordable, easy to install and fairly easy to clean and maintain.
Here are some tips on How to Prepare Wallpaper for Hanging the Professional Way by James Beattie
Designer’s Tips

Wallpaper Borders. They can be placed at chair rail height or close to the ceiling or they can
be mitered, creating a frame on the wall, even around doors and windows. Being well
coordinated with the main patterns is what to shoot for.

Patterns and Scale. When you shop for wallpaper, try to visualize the pattern you see in the
book in the real size of your room. Beautiful patterns can be deceiving to the actual scale
of the room.

Samples and Lighting. Always use samples and take the time to look at them during
different times of the day. In this way you get a clearer sense how colors and designs
perform under different light and how they co-relate with the rest of your décor.

Relation of Rooms. Before you make a commitment to a pattern, consider the relation of the
room you are wallpapering with the adjacent rooms. Try to avoid using clashing, overly busy
or irrelevant patterns in adjoining rooms.

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For most of us, the bedroom is the most important room of the house. And in my
opinion, it should be. Here we rest our heart and soul from the business of daily life.
Before you start putting together your bedroom project, let’s consider the home
essentials for your evening comfort and rest and…How Does Your Mattress Rate?

Also, choosing the right sleeping pillow(s) is another essential for a good rest.
Take some time to figure what level of firmness or softness works for you. It’s Easy to Decorate a Bedroom When You Create a Fun Theme Bedroom

If you enjoy reading in your bedroom, a good set of lamps by your nightstand is very
important, and/or a floor lamp by a reading chair. If you want to gain room for personal
items on your nightstand you can use wall-mount sconces, over your bedside.

Your bedroom is a very personal space. Feel free to improvise–create a quiet corner,
or a spot that you gather your memories, or display meaningful keepsakes.
And more important than any other room, avoid clutter. Try to put away magazines, mail,
clothing, shoes and extra “stuff”–You don’t want to end your day in a room that makes
your head spin; you want to dwell in that heavenly place.

Zebra Animal Print Ivory Bedding Set

This Zebra quilt set is more than a jungle or safari theme bedding.
The signature abstraction of the zebra pattern is captured in a modern, subtle coloring that
ensures a stylish blending with your current decor and a more versatile  contemporary look.

The design and the quality of this bedding create a rich and captivating product that keeps it apart from anything else available.

Buy Now  Zebra Quilt Set

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I’ll state the obvious: Different floor treatments create very different
visual effects in your Interior design projects.

Floor coverings can >

Make a room look Larger or Smaller than it is.
♦ For a larger effect, choose a wall-to-wall or an unbroken expanse
solid color floor with a smooth texture.
♦ For a smaller effect go with a big or heavy textured pattern, or brake
it with a variety of different materials in the same room.
Set the tone of the color scheme of a room. This usually can be achieved
with a rug, that will become the foundation of your color scheme.
Cut down the apparent height of a room. If you have a really tall or
vaulted ceiling, you can shorten the distance from the floor, by
using a weave and heavy-textured or patterned floor treatment.
Employ a theme in the room, such as Safari, Nautical, or Equestrian,
to give a unified feeling through color and other design elements.
Define a living space in an open floor plan into smaller gathering
units, for sitting or dining activities.
Create an “Anchor” or “Lift” effect.
For a grounding, cozy, gathering feeling, blend the flooring colors
with the walls, or choose solids in deeper shades.
For a more ethereal, uplifting, bright feeling, select pale and soft
floor coverings in lighter tones than the walls.
Dictate the use, practicality and special activities of a room.
For instance, the right floor treatment creates the difference in use and
comfort between a playroom and an eating area, or an office and a
craft room.
And here is a guide for finding the right floor for your room, by Mark Simon Dobryniewski

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The presence or absence of Light makes a tremendous impact on the feeling and the life of
any Interior. Many–if not most–homeowners don’t realize the importance of proper lighting
in every room, so they tend to compromise and end up with uninviting rooms, either cold
and semi-dark or excessively bright and glaring.

Here are a few things to consider:

* the activities which take place in the space
* the ages of all the people using the space
* the time of day in which the space will be used the most
* the mood to be established
* the function of the room–it may require more that one lighting pattern
* specialized lighting needs for collections or art objects
* any special effects that you wish to create
* the style and color schemes
* budget (sorry!)

A more detailed approach should include: direction the space faces, the number and size of
openings in the space, and the size of the rooms (including ceiling height).

Lighting is usually grouped into 3 categories: ambient or general, task, and accent or mood.
General lighting provides relatively uniform illumination in a room– ceiling, floor
or table lighting.
Task lighting provides illumination at a specific spot for the performance of tasks–reading,
writing, cooking, etc.
Accent lighting is used to make a specific area or object a focal point of a room, to highlight
pieces of art, plants, collections, etc. Here is an interesting article about accent lighting by
Donovan Gauvreau

Designer Tips:

Lighting fixtures are classified mostly by the method of producing light, style, mounting
method or direction the light is emitted, as shown in the illustration below:

Direct: All the light goes downward or toward (90-100%)

Semi-direct: Most light goes downward (60-90%)

Diffuse: The light is softened and cut down (40-60% going up and down)

Semi-indirect: Most of the light goes upward or away (60-90%)

Indirect: All the light goes upward or away (90-100%)

National Geographic Zebra Table Lamp

Huge herds of zebras flourish on the open grasslands of Africa. Their glorious stripes provide
excellent camouflage as their main predator, the lion, is believed to be colorblind.
This Zebra print table lamp, from the National Geographic Home lighting collection, was
inspired by these graceful creatures. Buy Now Zebra Table Lamp

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One of the most common ‘problems’ I discover when I do Interior Design house calls, is the absence of ART. You see beautiful pieces of furniture next to a bunch of bare walls. The idea of using Art is scary for most people not familiar with it. I have no idea about art or it’s too expensive is the common refrain. Homeowners would rather invest in the latest flat screen TV than “wasting” their money on a piece of Art.

Art and accessories are the essential finishing touches of any design project. The spirit and soul of art can make a house home. And if Fine Art is your cup of tea, great, but Art doesn’t need to be expensive to do the trick. The wide variety of art can set the tone and give character to any room.

Traditional or contemporary, bold or subdued, colorful or monochromatic, take your pick.

Designer’s tips

Height – Don’t hang art too high; try always to keep it at eye level.
Placement – You can place the Art in more places than just over the sofa. Asymmetrical balance is artful on its own. Think out of the box.
Scale – Be aware of the scale of the art in proportion with the size of the wall; small pictures in the middle of large walls are a no-no.
Grouping – Keep many small pieces of art together. See if you can create a story by coupling them as a group.
Balance – If the art is the focal point, let the rest of the room ‘be quiet’.
Frames – They can either enhance or ruin the quality of the art. A frame can be the art itself—if so, the actual art should be simple and understated.
Style – Dare to use contemporary art in traditional settings and vice versa. In both cases, be very careful with the selection of the frame.

Two Leopards Framed Print

Relaxing and beautiful! Leopards framed print by Marein Harvey.
Dimensions: 20″ x 16″
Custom framed with our contemporary 0.5″ wide Ronda Matte
metal frame in a matte finish.   Buy Now Leopards Print

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Say NO to clutter!
Gathering “stuff” is one of the most common diseases of our society today.
With about half of the new clients I visit the Interior Design challenge is immediately
clear: CLUTTER!
On the beautiful granite countertop island in the kitchen is a haphazard array of stuff.
Junk mail, magazines, pens, elastics, batteries, keys, a few coins, a recipe book or two,
and the most recent grocery bags. So much for dinner, never mind where your glasses
re! It’s as if we resist placing those things we daily use in a spot of their own.

It’s called ORGANIZATION 101. The need to keep everything “handy” fills the room
with a visual mess that gives the eyes no rest. Harmony and balance are out the window.

To bring this issue to an end, the experts say to find a permanent home for each
item you decide to keep, and put it there right away. In today’s market, you can
buy plain and decorative containers of all types and sizes to keep all those little things
neat and tidy. And if you are a “just in case” thinker that keeps stuff for months and
years before you really need them, try letting go of one item at a time, before you
make the effort to find a way to organize it.
You will be CLUTTER FREE before you know it and you will feel much lighter and
organized!

Animal Print Essentials, will offer you a series of room by room organization tips
with suggestions on fun and practical products.
Stay tuned!

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Have you ever lost your suitcase? Or even worse, did you ever get home after a long trip and discover that you have somebody else’s luggage?
Ugh, I hope not. While waiting for my suitcase at the airport carousel this summer, I noticed that 95 percent of the luggage coming through was black. Many had those creative tags tied around the handle yelling, “Here I am!”
There were red bows, jingles, a piece of yarn, polka-dot ribbons, neon elastics, even duck tape, and dirty half-peeled stickers with Disney characters.
Want a shortcut? How about a suitcase set with a flashy Tiger print or sophisticated Zebra pattern? Or may be a fun Leopard print? If class and luxury suits your flying style, how about a faux Croco or a solid Ostrich piece?
You will never miss a piece of luggage again, and watch all those animal lovers drool.
Plus, traveling fun will start in the very beginning of the packing process and will last until you get back home!

International Traveller Shiny Giraffe 4-Piece Polycarbonate Luggage Set

International Traveller’s hardside luggage and luggage sets are known throughout the world for their style and eye catching appearance.
Try International Traveller’s new polycarbonate Giraffe sets to get an idea of International Traveller’s flair for design. 
To Buy Now ON SALE Giraffe Luggage Set 4Pc

And here are 7 steps to avoid baggage charges, by John Lopinto:

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Got Faux? Well, you ought to. It’s the real thing. Faux may mean ‘fake’ in French, but when it
comes to Fur, faux is anything but the fuzzy frauds of yesteryear.
Today the high quality and true resemblance to real fur make Faux fur the number one selection for stylish and luxurious coats, fashion accessories, blankets, pillows and crafts.
Most major American and European fashion stylists and designers such as Ralph Lauren, Guess and DKNY, promote the use of fake fur in their collections due to its striking look and their efforts to support organizations that try to prevent killing animals for the purpose of
fashion.
Sarah Shirley, a New York-based fashion stylist and trend expert for Bloomindales says,
”Faux Fur is one of the hugest trends of the season; it is fun, and you don’t have to sink a lot of money into it!”
Thanks to inventive technology, Faux fur is now easy to dye and has evolved from cheap imitations into warm, rich-in-hand textured fabric. Faux Fur manufacturers will sometimes mix acrylic with cotton/wool blends, but most often the best quality fake fur is made out of
modacrylic, which is soft, strong, resilient, dimensionally stable and nonallergenic. Though it’s 100% acrylic, it is well received by most fur lovers for its beautiful soft texture and affordable price. In the world of man-made fibers Faux Fur is what cashmere is to wool. Don’t be faked out, Get Faux.

Terry Lewis Zebra Animal-Print Faux Fur Coat

This Animal-Print Faux Fur Coat by Terry Lewis is so much fun!
Supple faux fur in Zebra print. Portrait collar with oversized lapels.
Round neckline. Long sleeves. Turn-back cuffs.
Button front closure with chunky decorative buttons.
Buy Now Zebra Faux Fur Coat

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My special relationship with fabrics began when I was only 4-5 years old. Remnants from dad’s shop would end up as my dolls’ outfits.

Before long I was in his shop sorting Cashmerefabric samples, and breathing as much fabric lint as fresh air. We were readying his samples for the new season. It was quite a procedure. First was selecting the right samples, then cutting, sorting by color and pattern, and finally assembling them into collections in a beautifully illustrated hardcover binder.

My dad, imported textiles from England, Australia and New Zealand, and his specialty was
Cashmere. His shop was considered for years the “the spot” for men’s and women’s clothing fabric in the heart of downtown Athens, Greece. It was the main wholesale distributor in the country and the center fo the finest Cashmere and other fabric by the yard.

Though my base has now shifted from Greece to North America, my love and knowledge of fine fabrics has remained and blossomed into exciting design projects. Fabrics talk to me!
There is heart and soul in every fiber and thread, and I can certainly relate to it.

Cashmere, the royalty of wool products, is one of those fabrics that is woven with lots of love and care to become the soft, warm, luxurious final product. Cashmere is a necessity for every winter wardrobe and adds the touch of class to the every day basics. Found in many
colors and patterns, it sports well in outwear or sweaters, or as either simple or rich wraps in Hound’s tooth, Burberry check, or fashionable Animal print patterns.
Its value: Priceless!

CASHMERE FACTS

Did you know that the main source of Cashmere is the Capra Hircus goat that lives in elevations of 14,000 feet and above and primarily in China, Mongolia and Tibet. Smaller populations are also in the sub-Siberia region, India, Pakistan, Iran, Australia and New Zealand. Each goat produces approximately 4-6 ounces of fiber a year taken from its soft underbelly down, which justifies the sense of scarcity and its relatively high pricing.

The term Cashmere is synonymous with Pashmina, depending on where you are. Cashmere comes in different grades and ply’s and can be mixed with silk or linen. But the true pashmina is 100% wool. The purer the cashmere content, the softer and warmer and, yes–the more expensive it is.

Leopard Print Cashmere Throw Blanket

Lounge on your favorite chair wrapped up with this luxurious, soft Cashmere throw.

Made in Nepal with 3ply 100% cashmere. 60X80
To Buy Now Leopard Print Cashmere Throw Blanket

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Animal prints are rocking the general Textile industry of late.
Textile and Furniture designers freely use animal prints and natural textures in
upholstery, window treatments, wall-coverings, bedding, rugs and accessories.
Animal prints can be real pacesetters and are aesthetically striking as accents in Home
décor, adding a lively feel and that touch of class.
The Fashion world applies them liberally to shoes, accessories, purses, scarves, and more.
Women’s apparel, lingerie, swimwear, hosiery and night-ware also come with very stylish
applications of Animal prints.  And according to a resent MSN article, animal prints are on the
very top 5 most popular pattterns.
In men’s fashion, Animal prints show up in shoes, belts and traditional leather office goods,
with reptile and ostrich patterns the most popular.

In kids and baby fashion animal prints are just plain fun, and have a cozy and a playful attitude.

Besides the well loved, classic Leopard, Zebra or Snake skin patterns, animal prints
can come in a tone-on-tone look, and in an assortment of colors, textures, different
motifs and pattern combinations. Animal prints have expanded into all Reptile prints, as well
as Tiger, Gazelle, Ostrich, Giraffe, Jaguar, Cow, and Cheetah prints, to name a few, and are
available in a variety of materials and fabrics, including luscious silks, suede, cut velvets, soft
chenille, crisp linens, comfortable cottons, faux furs and animal skin replicas.

Designer’s Tip:

Unless you are trying to create a “Jungle or Safari” theme, animal prints
should be used with moderation. If you want them to be a focal point, they should be
coordinated with solids and, rarely, with very well selected complimentary prints.
Natural textures, on the contrary, can be used anywhere to enrich your design palette.

Animal Print Essentials offers a variety of media applications in Animal print and Natural
textures, and in Stone, Glass, Tortoise, Seashell, Gem-stones and other Natural materials.

A Note from Maria: Why Animal Prints?

Why Animal Prints? is a common question I frequently get from friends and relatives.
What made you create such a site?
Here is the thing: As I live, I create.
I constantly have numerous ideas coming to me about everything and anything.
New projects, new designs, new concepts and improvements. People that know
me have the impression that I am very creative, and all I can say is, there is a
power, a force, that I just can’t ignore, that pushes me to the next project.

Being in design and retail I’ve wanted to have my own website for the longest time. 
In fact I have even envisioned a series of websites that eventually will include all
the elements that I love and express through my work.

My Animal Print adventure begun in my early teens, when I took a trip with my family
to South Africa. My uncle who lived there at the time had a close friend who owned
a factory creating products from animal print designs.
I was really impressed with the art, the craftsmanship and the possibilities.

As an adult, I still held the picture of those natural gorgeous designs.
One day as I was driving to the grocery store the thought about an animal print web site
came to me like a bang. Of course, as most of us do, I left it behind a few minutes later.
There is this voice that attempts to sabotage us by saying, “too busy”, “too difficult”,
“no time”, “don’t know how to do that”, “not computer literate”, “no help”, “people will
think I am strange,” and any other kind of resistance to pull us away from our dreams.
And it did.

Months later, the idea came back and simply wouldn’t leave. The more it came the more
strange and crazy it felt to me. Until one day, I knew I had to do it. The picture was
completely unclear and the thoughts totally scattered. I didn’t know what to expect,
how I could make it happen. But I knew it was the right time and I was ready to put out
the effort to make it a reality. In my quiet time, I prayed to make sure the animal prints
was truly the right idea.

Animal prints began showing up almost daily: I would open a magazine to a random
page and see a cow print chaise…On a family trip, the lady seating next to my husband
was holding an animal print purse… The plane’s wall covering was zebra print …
A little girl running up and down the aisle was carrying a leopard backpack …
The lady sitting next to me at the cafe shop was wearing a leopard giraffe jacket…
A client showed up for an appointment wearing an animal print outfit … and on and on.

The rest is history. Tons of hours of research, reading and studying, learning technical
things every day, working after hours, reaching out, a great team of partners, and huge
support from my family, is pretty much the recipe.
I consider the entire process a journey of continuous learning and expanding.
I couldn’t be more grateful for all the good that is happening!

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