Contemporary or traditional? Glamorous or practical? Formal or casual? No matter what your decorating style, fabric offers infinite ways to express it. This accessible advice, from the experts at House Beautiful's "Swatch Watch" column, makes it simple to transform your furnishings. Here are insider tips for using fabric throughout a home-from sofas and chairs to headboards and window treatments. Know the difference between good, better, and best furniture construction-and which is right.

Fabric is one of the most fun-and fundamental-elements of interior design. The fabrics you select for sofas, chairs, window treatments, and other decorative elements reflect your unique sensibility. Learn how to successfully use any variety of patterns, from plaids and stripes to florals and paisleys.

Hundreds of stunning photos illustrate how different fabrics can dramatically change the look of a single piece of furniture. Although there are no design rules that apply to everyone, it helps to know basic principles and avoid common pitfalls. See how stripes can accentuate the length of a sofa, trim can complement textiles, and colors can create a mood. Let slipcovers refresh an old piece, protect your furniture, or make a seasonal change.

Typically the largest, most expensive piece of furniture, the sofa is the focal point of a room. Your choice of fabric can enhance the shape of different styles-from pillow-back to camelback to love seat. Similarly, fabric that works best on a wing chair may not be right for a club chair. Learn to use embellishments such as nailheads, ribbons, buttons, and welting to eye-catching effect.

Window treatments give you control of light, air flow, and privacy. Here are inspiring ideas for shades and curtains that are both functional and graceful. The beautiful examples you'll see in these pages will help you select the perfect styles, fabrics, and patterns for your home.

Explore the small touches that make a big difference, such as screens, shower curtains, tablecloths and headboards. See how these details can unify an overall look and offer opportunities for quick changes whenever the urge strikes. You can even make great-looking movable storage units from industrial metal shelves and fabulous fabrics. A fabric guide and glossary of terms and techniques completes this indispensable resource. Book jacket.