Folk art has undergone quite the revival lately, bringing its charming handcrafted aesthetic into modern homes across the country. There’s something wonderfully authentic about these pieces that connect us to traditions and craftsmanship of the past while adding character to our contemporary spaces. Fancy bringing some folk-inspired charm into your home? Read on to discover some easy ways to incorporate this trend without overwhelming your existing décor.
What Is Folk Art?
‘Folk art’ is a generic, catch-all term that can be quite complicated to pin down. Generally, it refers to art that’s linked to cultural aesthetics. It may be purely decorative or utilitarian and it’s always handmade or at least contains some handmade elements. Exponents of folk art may be self taught or have been informally or formally trained in their craft.
Pieces are usually made from materials readily to hand, such as wood, stone, leaves and straw, and are often unique to a specific country or region. Each piece is slightly different, and has a tangible link back to the person who made it.
A British example is Welsh love spoons, which are intricately carved to express devotion and have both a practical and ornamental function. Folk art tells a story, and it has not only charm but heritage.
The Modern Folk Trend
Modern Folk is a trend that celebrates handcrafted aesthetics and is inspired by diverse global cultures.
Folk art isn’t just about dusty antiques anymore—today’s artists are reimagining traditional techniques with fresh perspectives, creating pieces that honor heritage while feeling completely at home in modern interiors. The beauty of this trend is that you don’t need to completely redecorate to embrace it—a few thoughtfully selected accessories can transform your space.
The appeal of modern folk art lies in its handmade quality. In our mass-produced world, these items tell stories and show the human touch that many of us crave in our living spaces. Whether it’s hand-carved wooden objects, embroidered textiles, or painted ceramics, these pieces bring warmth and personality that factory-made items simply can’t match.
Featuring rich colours, organic textures and whimsical patterns it will add character to any interior. As pieces tend to be colourful and eye-catching, less is more unless you love the maximalist look. Pair modern folk pieces with a neutral background and plenty of rustic, natural textures such as linen, hessian, stone and wood.
Here are some modern folk art pieces to consider.
Bulgarian heritage folk plate, Casa by JJ
A beauty from Bulgaria, this plate is pure brilliance. The artist’s touch is clear to see in the hand-painted monochrome pattern. It’s hand-wash only, but you may prefer to save it for display or special occasions. Was £66 now £50, available from Casa by JJ.
Boho luxe Mystic Forest wallpaper, Beautiful Walls
The charming wooded scenic pattern Mystic Forest is a modern approach to European folk-art motifs. The beauty of nature is blended with bold glamour for an eye-catching result. £85/roll, available in several colourways from Beautiful Walls.
Foxgloves! lampshade, Mountain & Molehill
In Norse legend foxes wear the bell-shaped foxglove flowers around their neck next as a guard against hunters. Vintage animal etchings adorn this quirky shade which is handmade to order from fine art paper. Prices start at £65, available from Mountain & Molehill.
Folk art style flowers print, Ink & Drop
Bring artful and on-trend style to any room with this folk art style vintage flowers print. In a naive painting style, this print will add charm and flair to any wall. Make a statement with this beautiful print. Prices start at £13.50, available from Ink & Drop.
Folk embroidered cushion, Mind the Gap
Showcasing two traditional symbols from Transylvanian culture, the fox and the bird, this eye-catching cushion (above and main image) brings instant energy and fun to your decor. Made from luxurious linen, it features front embroidery detailing with a white M letter monogram on the back, finished with blue scallop crochet lace trimming and tassels. Complete with a feather cushion pad, it costs £189 from Lime Lace.
Hare coir doormat, Perkins & Moreley
Part of the ‘One World’ collection, this mat features a naive, folk art hare. Made in Britain from premium quality natural coconut fibre with an anti-slip backing, it costs £28.99 from Perkins & Moreley.
100% cotton mandala printed round rug, Homescapes Online
This black and white mandala rug 100% cotton round rug with tassels is printed with a geometric design. Perfect for styling in contemporary and retro style living spaces, pair with textured cushions and throws to create the perfect look. £19.99, available from Homescapes Online.
