The word “bunting” originally referred to a specific type of fabric used to make ribbons and flags in 17th century Europe. This lightweight worsted wool fabric was hot-pressed to achieve a glazed effect that made the fabric more able to withstand the elements. Today “bunting” is a term for any festive decorations made from fabric or made to look as if they were fabric. 4th of July bunting is especially popular. For a few weeks each summer, homes and businesses across the country are swathed in red, white, and blue.
Bunting often appears as strings of colorful triangular flags. You may see plastic rainbow bunting fluttering over car dealerships and carnivals, or see red, white, and green bunting adorning the walls of your local Italian restaurant. Although 4th of July bunting can also be triangular, it often appears instead as long lengths of red, white and blue fabric gathered into swags or arranged into pleated fans. In each of its manifestations, bunting is significantly more sophisticated than the standard crepe paper streamer.
Today this traditional method of decorating is making a comeback. No longer consigned primarily to gazebo railings and float platforms, bunting has become a popular design element at weddings, birthdays, and other affairs. Party planners have re-imagined independence bunting in all colors of the rainbow and incorporated it into their events, adding an interesting visual element that is simultaneously festive and traditional. Bunting adds texture and movement to a party and evokes a feeling of nostalgia. It is especially effective at enhancing rustic or vintage themed events.
Hanging bunting is a great way to embrace tradition and trend at once. Far more than the sprinkles atop your local used car lot, bunting is versatile and allows a decorator ample opportunity to express their creativity. From cheerful 4th of July bunting to the swags of bright fabric that line a wedding aisle, bunting is everywhere, and is likely to remain popular for many years to come.
Bunting often appears as strings of colorful triangular flags. You may see plastic rainbow bunting fluttering over car dealerships and carnivals, or see red, white, and green bunting adorning the walls of your local Italian restaurant. Although 4th of July bunting can also be triangular, it often appears instead as long lengths of red, white and blue fabric gathered into swags or arranged into pleated fans. In each of its manifestations, bunting is significantly more sophisticated than the standard crepe paper streamer.
Today this traditional method of decorating is making a comeback. No longer consigned primarily to gazebo railings and float platforms, bunting has become a popular design element at weddings, birthdays, and other affairs. Party planners have re-imagined independence bunting in all colors of the rainbow and incorporated it into their events, adding an interesting visual element that is simultaneously festive and traditional. Bunting adds texture and movement to a party and evokes a feeling of nostalgia. It is especially effective at enhancing rustic or vintage themed events.
Hanging bunting is a great way to embrace tradition and trend at once. Far more than the sprinkles atop your local used car lot, bunting is versatile and allows a decorator ample opportunity to express their creativity. From cheerful 4th of July bunting to the swags of bright fabric that line a wedding aisle, bunting is everywhere, and is likely to remain popular for many years to come.