If you love that retro look, vintage chenille bedspreads could be a great way to add some fun style to your bedroom or guest room. Learn about the history of these bedding items, and find out how to get a great deal!
About Chenille Bedspreads
The term chenille comes from the French word for caterpillar and refers to the fuzzy, textured designs found on these bedspreads. While some versions of chenille have been around for centuries, the American design world first fell in love with the pattern in the 1930s. Catherine Evans, an enterprising Georgian woman, is credited with the first major resurgence of chenille bedspreads. Later, in the 1950s and 1960s, these bedspreads made another comeback.
Today, interior designers are using more chenille bedspreads in decorating. Since one of the current design trends involves using textiles and furniture pieces from various times in history, chenille bedspreads fit in perfectly.
A Note About Vintage Linens
When it comes to bedding, vintage is about more than age. Great vintage linens have something special. They represent an iconic and specific period in decorating history, and they must be well-made. Many experts say that the difference between vintage and old comes down to quality and style.
Where to Find Vintage Chenille Bedspreads
If you're shopping for fine quality chenille bedspreads from previous decades, you have several options. Locally, you can scour antique stores and thrift shops for good deals. You may also find vintage linens at garage sales, flea markets, and estate sales, and it's a good idea to keep an eye on the newspaper classified ads.
While shopping locally lets you see the merchandise for yourself before you buy it, you may not be able to find exactly what you want. For the best selection, it's probably best to shop online.
Online Antique Marketplaces
Several Internet retailers specialize in antique and vintage items, and these stores can be a great place to find vintage bedspreads. Since most online antiques retailers have a constantly changing inventory, it makes sense to check back often if you don't find exactly what you have in mind. Here are a few of the top choices for vintage linens:
- Ruby Lane is basically an online antique mall. Hundreds of individual antique retailers have items displayed at this Internet storefront. Many sellers feature vintage linens, so this could be a great place to find a chenille bedspread.
- Tias.com is another online antique mall, and they generally have several stores featuring vintage or antique chenille bedspreads. Many are selling for around $75 to $150.
- GoAntiques.com, also an online antique mall, features a special section dedicated to antique textiles. This could be the perfect place to find a chenille bedspread.
Art and Auction Sites
Online auction sites often have great deals on vintage bedding items, and chenille bedspreads are no exception. You'll also find listings for vintage bedspreads on art sites, and some artists use vintage textiles to create new bedding items. Browse these sites and check back often for new additions:
- eBay is the ultimate Internet auction site for a reason. It's huge, and the selection is usually great. Recently, a search for vintage chenille bedspreads turned up over 700 items.
- Etsy.com is an Internet artists' marketplace. In addition to remade chenille bedspreads, you'll find a great selection in their vintage section. Prices are typically very reasonable, and you'll get the added satisfaction of knowing you're supporting an artist.
Other Options
Still can't find what you need? You could also get a modern chenille bedspread with vintage style. This might be the best choice if you're on a strict budget, want something new, or are looking for a specific size or color. Here are a few places to look for vintage-style chenille bedspreads:
Final Words
No matter where you purchase your chenille bedspread, you'll be pleased with how much of an impact it has on your room. Bedspreads are a great way to add a big dose of cottage chic or vintage style to your bedroom.
