Primitive decorating

Primitive decorating is a style of decorating using primitive folk art style that is characteristic of a historic or early Americana time period, typically using elements with muted colors and a rough and simple look to them. Decorating in the primitive style can incorporate either true antiques or contemporary folk art.^[1] Contemporary primitive folk art is designed to have an old or antique look but created using new materials.^[2]

Examples of antiquing techniques used by primitive folk artists include tea or coffee staining and sanding down paint to create a worn, aged look. The style is sometimes referred to as country style.^[3][4]

Primitive decorating often features a number of recurring themes and characters including primitive angels, barnstars, primitive crows, primitive dolls & rag dolls, saltbox houses, sheep, willow trees, primitive wooden signs, and pottery.^[4] Primitive design focuses on furniture made between the mid-18th century and the early 19th century by farmers.^[5][6]

A number of magazines specialize in primitive decorating.^[3][7]

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  Barnstars are a common element of primitive decorating
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  A primitive decoration created using an antique window frame, barn star and pip berry garland

• Country Living
• Interior design