Wood Lily Damask: A Prairie Inspired Pattern Design

"Wood Lily" is a symmetrical heritage floral pattern inspired by the wild lily, native to the forests and prairies of Saskatchewan, and North America more broadly.

This damask inspired floral pattern features intertwining stems with blooming lily flowers and scrolling acanthus leaves in a mirrored arrangement lends to the arts and crafts aesthetic of the design.

Here's a look at the dove grey colourway of this botanical pattern design.

A mirrored, symmetrical design taking influence from the wonderufl works of the Arts and Crafts movement, this pattern come about from the lilies pictured below. Growing on the road side at the entrance of a forest trail. These bold and bright botanicals , also known as a tiger lily, flame lily, wester red lily, and prairie lily, are a staple in Canadian woodlands and they happen to be Saskatchewan's provincial flower.

With each new design that I create, my hope is to try new techniques and challenge myself to create something in a new way or to find a new end result, that generates something unlike what I've created before. That goal held true for this Wood Lily surface design as well.

Originally drawn for Spoonflowers Cabincore Design Challenge, focusing on woodland themes, this lily pattern developed into a timeless, whimsical, and intricate floral print, pulling on aesthetics of Art Nouveau, medieval, and Victorian interiors.

The starting point for the design was knowing that I wanted it to be centeredaround the styles of the Arts and Crafts movement. This artistic period is known for its reverence for nature and handcrafted beauty and sought to honour nature’s finest details in art, especially through wallpaper, textiles, and furnishings. The Wood Lily pattern, with its lush, winding foliage and symmetrical motifs, is a modern interpretation of that tradition, bringing a sense of history and wild beauty into contemporary interiors.

The initial colourway for this design was based on the traditional orange hue of the wood lily floral, and from there many other colour stories developed. Here is a glance at the many varieties that are now available for this pattern.

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Symbolism and Natural Inspirations

The wood lily, at the heart of this design, is a powerful symbol of resilience and beauty in Canadian nature. This flower, with its vibrant orange-red petals and distinct speckled pattern, blooms in the summer months across North American prairies and forested regions. Historically, the lily has been admired for its hardy nature and its striking colors, both of which make it stand out in the landscape. While the pattern comes in multiple colorways to suit diverse decor schemes, the essence of the wood lily’s unique character remains central.

In addition to the lily, the pattern incorporates other elements reminiscent of Canadian flora, bringing subtle nods to regional wildflowers, vines, and leaves found in temperate forests. The intricate, swirling lines evoke the growth patterns of vines winding through the forest, as well as the whimsical curves found in Art Nouveau. This combination of specific floral inspiration and the universal appeal of natural forms creates a pattern that is both grounded in place and universally appealing.

Versatility and Aesthetic Appeal

With multiple colorways available, this pattern offers versatility for various interior styles, ranging from light and airy to moody and dramatic. The design can adapt to numerous settings, from accent walls to upholstery or statement accessories. In a living room, for instance, it can add a sense of warmth and historical charm, while in a bedroom, it might evoke a cozy, woodland-inspired sanctuary. For maximalists, layering it with other patterns can create a bold, eclectic look, while minimalists may enjoy its ability to act as a statement piece that speaks of nature’s quiet intricacy.

Regardless of the color scheme chosen, the symmetrical arrangement and flowing forms create a balanced, harmonious visual effect. This symmetry reflects the Arts and Crafts movement’s commitment to order and balance while retaining a hand-crafted, organic feel. This balance makes the design particularly suited for those looking to add a touch of historical elegance and natural charm to their spaces, bringing a timeless beauty that can complement both modern and traditional decor.

This pattern design is ideal for anyone with a love for nature, history, or traditional craftsmanship. It’s a reminder of the beauty that lies in nature’s details, a celebration of the woodlands and prairies, and a tribute to the timeless allure of botanical motifs. By choosing this design, one not only brings a piece of Canadian heritage into their home but also connects with a broader artistic tradition that spans centuries.

Click here for a closer look at the Wood Lily pattern and current colour way offerings.