Pattern Story: Geranium

Geranium botanicals are not a new design, of course. But that stands to reason, because, usually, nothing I like is new. I’m attracted to the old, the vintage, the classics that always come back around. When an old print or pattern catches my eye, I instantly start thinking of how I can update it to make it new and fresh.

When I was little, I had Laura Ashley bedding that I loved. It was pink and green floral, and ever since, I’ve been drawn to patterns that remind me of it, as well as all things pink and green. When I started thinking about patterns for this collection, that Laura Ashley bedding kept coming to mind.

Of course, I collected other inspiration along the way. 

I don’t remember when I first encountered Le Manach’s Palmyre fabric, but it’s one I’ve long admired. The pattern, first printed in 1931 and still being made almost a century later, has stood the test of time. The sinuous flower stems were an inspiration for our geranium pattern, and I just love the history behind it. Le Manach is one of France’s notable textile houses and has been creating beautiful patterns for almost two hundred years. Their fabrics are often used in the restoration of historic homes, and I just love imagining the stories those fabrics could tell.

John Derian was another inspiration for this pattern, especially the botanical imagery in the Target collection from a few years back. His decoupage style appeals to my love of found and collected items, and I adore what he creates.

While I have my frustrations with Instagram, I do love the art I find there. The gorgeous paper flowers that The Green Vase creates were another thing on my mind as I was daydreaming about geraniums.

And finally, I stared at this little collection of vintage prints and original watercolors until I had an “aha” moment of exactly what I wanted in a geranium pattern.

And that’s the story of the inspiration behind the geranium pattern gracing the cover of our 2023 Week on One Page planner! Share how you style and use your planner by tagging us on Instagram @whitneyenglish!