IKEA Swaps Out Furniture For Fabrics With Vibrant Line That’s Sew Special
By Mikelle Leow, 13 Jun 2024
Image courtesy of IKEA
IKEA is weaving a new tale in home textiles with its latest collection, Tyg, designed to inspire creativity and connection through fabric. With a name that means “fabric” in Swedish, Tyg offers a colorful array of pre-cut, three-meter (nearly 10-foot) textiles that invite everyone—even those who can’t work their way around a needle and thread—to unleash their inner artist or designer. Because sometimes, power tools and paint can be too rigid.
Bringing together the talents of 13 designers from various backgrounds, Tyg showcases 20 unique patterns that reflect the bold and cheerful spirit of Scandinavian design. These vibrant fabrics are meant to encourage personalization, allowing people to transform their living spaces without feeling constrained.
Images courtesy of IKEA
This isn’t just about reupholstering your grandma’s sofa (although, hey, go for it!). From curtains and throws to tote bags, wall art, and even bangles that double as pincushions, the possibilities are endless. They’re fully flexible, in fact.
“The only thing stopping you is the hem,” IKEA winks.
“Be different,” commands IKEA. “A skirt for your vase, maybe?”
Image courtesy of IKEA
“Sew a drawstring into the hem of a round piece of fabric and pull the fabric around the waist of your vase to give it a whole new look,” the furniture giant recommends. “With this technique, you can also cover up jars, create play mats and storage for toys, or make giveaway bags filled with goodies. Just adjust the size of the fabric accordingly. ”
Image courtesy of IKEA
“Be eye-catching… Make your storage beautiful and easy to navigate with the help of fabrics, scissors and a bit of glue.”
Image courtesy of IKEA
Beyond adding pop to your home, Tyg is also about fostering a more mindful way of living. By encouraging repair, reuse, and personalization, IKEA hopes to inspire a shift away from disposable culture. With pre-cut fabrics available online and in stores, the selection ensures that anyone can partake in the joy of creation with minimal effort.
Images courtesy of IKEA
“By introducing Tyg, IKEA continues to inspire and empower individuals to live more consciously and express themselves more bravely,” the brand expresses in an email. “Like a blank canvas waiting for a unique touch, it allows everyone the opportunity to turn the ordinary into something extraordinary.”
IKEA’s affinity with textiles is nothing new. For over 80 years, its meter fabrics have been a staple in homes around the world. The Tyg collection builds on this rich heritage, emphasizing accessibility and ease of use.
“Be practical,” prompts the brand. “Mix and match patterns, colors, and forms with a customized wall organizer. Hang your favorite fabric over a wooden stick to keep it straight and add personalized pockets in different shapes. This little friend helps keep track of all your favorites and since you make it yourself, you can ensure it fits all your stuff.”
Image courtesy of IKEA
“At IKEA, our identity is deeply intertwined with the textiles,” asserts Marie Olsson, range area manager of home textiles and rugs at IKEA of Sweden AB. “Historically, we are recognized for our patterns and textiles, which have a long-standing heritage of bold expressions that tell stories. The new Tyg collection continues that journey with many inspirational expressions from the 13 designers involved in the project. In the meanwhile, we also found some old, timeless modern patterns in our treasure chest to re-use.”
Images courtesy of IKEA
Olsson adds, “Tyg expresses the IKEA way, ‘You can do it,’ in a playful manner. We did our part as creators of this collection, and we invite you to continue the creation journey.”
Image courtesy of IKEA
“Be unexpected,” IKEA encourages. “Never lose track of the remote control again. Attach a pocket to the side of your armchair or sofa and it will always be close at hand.”
Image courtesy of IKEA
“Bespoke furniture is only a few stitches away,” shares the retailer.
Images courtesy of IKEA
Perhaps we’ll move towards a future where no two BILLY bookcases are the same.
Apart from individual creativity, Tyg aims to foster togetherness. IKEA envisions these fabrics as a medium for community bonding, where people come together to share skills, stories, and create lasting memories. Whether it’s through sewing, quilting, or simple DIY projects that involve just stapling and gluing, Tyg celebrates the collective joy of handcrafting and the connections it can build across cultures and generations.
Image courtesy of IKEA
Launching in select markets this July, Tyg offers 16 core patterns that will be available for two years, with an additional four seasonal options dropping later in the year. Prices range between US$9.99 and US$14.99. So, grab your scissors, thread your needle, and get ready to stitch your own story at home.
Image courtesy of IKEA
[via IKEA, images courtesy]