Coastal DIY: Bohemian Beach Towel

Coastal DIY: Bohemian Beach Towel

THINGS YOU WILL NEED:

• White, 100% cotton towel
• Rit liquid dye
• Bucket or large bowl
• 2 yards fringed cotton trim (I found this at Hobby Lobby)
• Fray Check
• Sewing machine with white cotton thread
• Scissors
• Large elastic bands

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Wrap Elastic Bands Around the Towel to Create Patterns

I tested out three different styles and patterns on towels. The pink towel was only dyed on the two ends of the towel. I wrapped four elastic bands about 1½ inches apart (as shown below). I used two to three elastic bands on each stripe and made sure they were very snug. For the single green circle in the center of the towel, I picked the towel up from the very center and then added six elastic bands about 1-inch apart.

Step 2: Prepare the Dye

In a bucket or large bowl, mix about 1/3 of a bottle of Rit liquid dye with about 1/2 gallon of hot water.

Step 3: Dip the Towel in the Dye

Always dye with hot water and rinse with cold water. It will help the dye set. Also adding a couple tablespoons of white vinegar in the rinse water can help keep the colors more vibrant.

Step 4: Rinse Out the Dye

Because I wanted to keep my dye patterns in specific spots on the towels and wanted to keep the rest of the towel crisp white, I was very careful when rinsing the dye out. I ran the dyed portions of the towel under running cold water for quite awhile. When the water started to run clear, I removed the rubber bands (the easiest way is to just cut them with a pair of scissors).

To help set the color, rinse the dyed portions of the towels in a some cold water with a couple tablespoons of white vinegar.

Line dry or put the towels in the dryer.

Step 5: Pin the Trim to the Ends of the Towel

Cut the fringed trim to the length of the towel's widths. Pin the trim to the ends of the towel. Turn the raw edges of the trim under.

Step 6: Sew the Trim to the Towel

Using a sewing machine, sew the trim onto the towel.

Step 7: Prevent the Edges of the Trim From Fraying

Apply a small amount of Fray Check to the edges of the trim. Allow it it to dry completely.

Summer is the perfect time to get crafty and make some fun things for your or next beach vacation. These easy and inexpensive towels are sure to make a splash! 

Choosing the right accent chair for a beach house is about more than style — it’s about comfort, durability, and how the piece works within a relaxed coastal space. The best accent chairs combine soft, livable materials with timeless design, creating seating that feels effortless and easy to use every day.
This guide covers how to choose accent chairs for a coastal home, what materials work best, and how to create a cohesive living space using pieces that are both functional and elevated.

What You'll Learn in This Guide:

• What makes a great accent chair for a beach house
• Which materials work best in coastal homes
• How to choose the right style and size
• How to pair chairs with sofas, rugs, and tables
• Which accent chairs work best for everyday living
  

What Makes a Great Accent Chair for a Beach House?

A well-chosen accent chair should feel comfortable, durable, and visually balanced within the space.

Look for:

• Soft, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton
• Durable construction for everyday use
• Neutral or coastal-inspired tones
• Shapes that feel relaxed rather than overly structured
  

The goal is a chair that looks beautiful but is also used daily.

Slipcovered Accent Chairs

Slipcovered chairs are one of the best choices for coastal homes because they are:

• Comfortable and relaxed
• Easy to maintain and clean
• Ideal for homes with kids, pets, and everyday use
  

Woven & Natural Material Chairs

Chairs made from rattan, wood, or woven materials add texture and depth.

• Adds natural, organic feel
• Works well in layered coastal spaces
• Pairs beautifully with neutral palettes

Upholstered Coastal Chairs

Upholstered chairs in soft fabrics provide:

• Additional comfort
• More structured seating
• A polished coastal look

How to Style Accent Chairs

Accent chairs should feel like part of the room — not an afterthought.

Pair with:

• Coastal rugs to ground the seating area
• Driftwood tables for natural texture
• Coastal lighting to add warmth and dimension

This combination creates a space that feels layered and complete.

How to Choose the Right Size

• Ensure the chair fits proportionally within the room
• Leave enough space for movement
• Pair with the right scale of sofa or sectional

One oversized chair often works better than multiple small pieces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Choosing style over comfort
• Selecting materials that don’t hold up to daily use
• Going too small for the space
• Overmatching instead of layering textures

Shop the Look

• Slipcovered Seating
• Driftwood Coffee Tables
• Best Selling Coastal Rugs
• Coastal Lamps

Why We Love It

Accent chairs are one of the easiest ways to complete a room.

• Adds comfort and flexibility
• Creates balance in seating areas
• Introduces texture and personality
• Works across casual and more refined spaces