Toile de Jouy, often abbreviated to simply “toile“, is a type of decorating pattern consisting of a usually white or off-white background on which a repeated pattern depicting a fairly complex scene, generally of a pastoral theme such as (for example) a couple having a picnic by a lake. Toiles also often consist of an arrangement of flowers. The pattern portion consists of a single color, most often black, dark red, or blue. Greens, browns and magenta toile patterns are less common but not unheard of.
“Toile de Jouy,” or “toiles de Jouy,” are terms that refer to fabric that was first manufactured at a factory in Jouy-en-Josas, a village located southwest of Paris, near Versailles. Founded in 1760 by German-born Christophe-Philippe Oberkampf, (1738-1815), a textile entrepreneur, the factory site was chosen primarily because of its proximity to the clear running water of the Bièvre River. Oberkampf knew that water is a crucial element in the dyeing process. Only the highest quality goods were used in the production of the factory’s printed fabrics made of cotton, one reason for the enterprise’s success.
The Oberkampf name quickly became synonymous with the word “toile.” The factory became famous for its monochromatic toiles which were printed in red, blue, or black, on a white or cream background. Even though four other countries produced toile fabric, as well as three other French factories, located in Alsace, Nantes, and Rouen, to this day “toile de Jouy” is the name that remains.
Toile remains a popular pattern in modern decorating, and is often used in bedroom décor to create a traditional feel. Toile is most associated with fabrics (curtains and upholstery in particular), though toile wallpaper is also popular. Toile can also be used on teapots and bedding.
Toile color ways aren’t just about style; they also evoke different emotions. “Blue and white can feel very cool and open”, interior designer Millicent Barwick says. “Reds are more dramatic.” Accent fabrics and trims can change toile from formal to casual. “Stripes for example, can make toile feel more formal, as can a braided type of enhancement or silk trim.” Barwick explains. “Stripes can create a very country French look.” Toile with a white background and an airy or wispy pattern can make a room appear more spacious.
When it comes to toile, “use as much as possible,” interior designer Catherine Callahan advises. “It makes the room cohesive and creates a sense of serenity and proportion. And it looks very finished.” “Toile is such a special pattern ,” she says. “It should always remain the star of the room. When you pair it with other fabrics , try subtle ginghams, checks, stripes and of course solids.” “You can take a small space and wrap it all up in one pleasant pattern,” she says, “toiles are the easiest. You can do an all-toile room, or just touches of it. The best thing is, there are no rules — you determine your own comfort level as far as quantity goes.”
Shown above, the Southern Textiles Jolie Toile bedding ensemble features a classic toile pattern accented with a country check bedskirt. The Southern Textiles Jolie Black Toile Bedding collection is available in Queen, King, and California King bed in a bag sets.
The Stafford Bedding Collection by Williamsburg Bedding brings a traditional, comfortable feel to your bedroom décor with its beautiful blue floral motif set against quilted white. Checkered blue and white on the quilt’s reverse as well as white-on-blue embroidered pillows gracefully accent the Williamsburg Stafford bedding collection.
An eye-catching traditional floral bedding ensemble, the Sanderson bedding collection by Rose Tree Bedding features a embroidered Jacobean blue floral motif which reverses to an allover blue toile scrollwork design that matches the bedskirt. Featuring ruffled trim and brush fringe in the decorator pillows and pillow shams, the Rose Tree Sanderson bedding collection is a comfortably elegant centerpiece for your bedroom decor.
The Bergman Allegro Toile bedding collection is an impressionistic European motif, French country with fashion forward sophistication in distinctive black and cream Toile de Jouy and complimentary small plaid print.
Bring in the beauty of the outside world with the Brighton Green Toile Bedding collection by Williamsburg. The floral arrangement surrounds all parts of the bed including the quilt, pillows, and shams. The genuine copper-plate fabric continues Williamsburg elegant taste for 18th century décor.



